Data management and modelling - A model-based assessment of sustainable management practices in agricultural soils
Course description
Soils are complex systems where physical, chemical and biological processes occur simultaneously. To understand and evaluate the behavior of the soil system in response to external influences such as climate change or management practices, process-oriented models have become indispensable tools, especially for future predictions. Advances in technology and database development have reduced the run time of simulations, allowing the evaluation of long-term scenarios using models linked to large databases. However, this often increases the size and complexity of input data and model outputs. Finding the right tools to help organize this data has become key to modelling studies, regardless of the model and scale of interest. Considering that knowledge and skills in data management are a prerequisite for researchers, this workshop will provide tools and examples on how to organize datasets and link them to two process-oriented models for agricultural (and grassland) soils.
Course facts
P000156, Data management and modelling - A model-based assessment of sustainable management practices in agricultural soils, 3.0 Hp
Print syllabus
Syllabus
Finalized by: Katharina Meurer, 2026-04-27
Valid from : Period 4ab VT26 (2026-03-24)
Level
Third cycle
Subject
Soil Science
Grading Scale
The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.
Course language
English
Entry Requirements
Participants are expected to bring and work on their own laptops. Basic knowledge of soil science and soil processes is a prerequisite.
Objectives
The aim of this course is to (i) introduce working with the database system PostgreSQL, (ii) apply two database-driven process-oriented models using an example dataset and visualize the outcomes using the R software, (iii) develop different agricultural management scenarios for simulations and (iv) evaluate simulation results from a process and soil systems perspective.
Content
The course consists of three parts (participation is compulsory):
- A preparatory online meeting on 15th May 2026, 10:00 – 12:00, during which we will review each participant's experience and set the framework for the upcoming workshop. In addition, the software necessary for participation will be installed together in order to avoid system errors during the actual workshop.
- An online paper discussion on 22nd May 2026, 10:00 – 12:00, during which we will discuss modelling-related issues, such as parameterization, calibration, and validation in small groups and with the whole class.
- An in-person workshop at campus Ultuna (Uppsala, Sweden) from 25th to 29th May 2025 with the participation of experts in this particular research area (see below). This will culminate in a wrap-up session on the final day of the workshop, where students will give an oral presentation of their own research.
Examination Formats and Requirements for Passing the Course
Marking scale: Pass/Fail - Compulsory presence to meetings and workshop - Oral presentation
Responsible Department/Equivalent
Department of Soil and Environment