By Kenneth Mullinax/ASU
The National Science Foundation (NSF) has awarded a $500,000 grant to Alabama State University professor, Dr. Muhammad Saleem, a faculty member in the Department of Biological Sciences. Dr. Saleem was recently awarded another prestigious NSF grant through its Excellence in Research program.
The current $500-K grant will further support Dr. Saleem's research that is focused on microbial ecosystem ecology, which is the study of how microorganisms, including bacteria, protists, and viruses, interact with each other and their environment. Dr. Saleem shared that during this grant preparation process, he benefited from the valuable assistance and mentorship of ASU's acclaimed Dr. Manoj Mishra.
"My research investigates the complex interactions within microbial communities and their broader environmental effects. This funding will support my pioneering study on the impact of cover crop diversity on soil microbiome functioning," Saleem said. "I will specifically examine how various cover crops affect microbial networks and overall soil health."
He explained that the outcomes of his research are expected to be instrumental in developing advanced cover crop strategies that improve soil ecosystem stability and function, which are crucial for food security and sustainable agriculture.
"By enhancing our understanding of how different cover crops influence soil health, my work aims to contribute to more resilient and productive agricultural systems," Saleem concluded.