I’m Gema Gomez, a second-year undergraduate student majoring in Agricultural Plant and Soil Science at California State University, Monterey Bay. I am proud to be both a McNair Scholar and a member of the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Center (UROC), with a strong passion for soil science and environmental sustainability.
My current research focuses on evaluating eucalyptus biochar as a soil carbon amendment to enhance water conservation and soil health in California’s Central Coast region. Under the mentorship of Dr. Arun Jani, I am conducting field and laboratory experiments to assess key soil health indicators, including bulk density, plant-available nitrogen, and available water capacity.
In the lab, I’m gaining hands-on experience with a variety of soil analysis techniques, such as potassium chloride extractions, microplate spectrophotometer for inorganic nitrogen, and soil incubation experiments to measure respiration and potentially mineralizable nitrogen. My fieldwork involves the use of professional tools like soil moisture sensors, augers, and probes to better understand how soils respond to environmental changes and management practices.
I'm particularly interested in how soil science can drive progress in sustainable agriculture, ecosystem restoration, and climate resilience. This upcoming summer (2025), I’m excited to be participating in the Sustainability Opportunities in Agricultural Research (SOAR) program at the University of Minnesota, part of their Research and Extension Experiences for Undergraduates (REEU). There, I’ll be working in Dr. Julie Grossman's lab, collaborating with leading researchers in soil and plant science.
Thanks for visiting my site! Please feel free to explore my upcoming projects or contact me—I'm always open to connecting with others who are passionate about soils, sustainability, and science.
Conducting field and lab research exploring the impact of biochar and compost on soil health and crop performance; translating soil health field day documents from English to Spanish to expand project outreach.
Assisted harvesting vegetables on small diversified family farm.
Assisted setting up plant and soil learning activities for children’s projects.
Pursuing B.S. in Agricultural Plant and Soil Sciences, Department of Biology and Chemistry, California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB), Seaside CA
The McNair Scholars Program is embedded within the UROC Scholars program and prepares academically-talented and motivated CSUMB undergraduates from all majors for doctoral level studies via engagement in research and other scholarly activities that support the successful transition to graduate programs.
The goals of the program are to assist students to achieve their maximum academic potential, experience social and cultural activities, and assist students in creating a "plan" for their futures after graduating from CSUMB.
Engaged in extra-curricular Agriculture oppportunties on a volunteer basis in order to further devlop my passion for plant & soil science.
Conducted potassium chloride extractions and tested for inorganic nitrogen.
Set up experiments to measure soil respiration and potentially mineralizable.
Used soil moisture sensors, augers, and probes for field data collection
Collected and prepared soil samples for lab testing and analysis
Worked effectively with research teams in both field and lab environments to coordinate sampling and experimental setup
Applied critical analysis to soil data and experimental outcomes to support research conclusions