Alain F. Plante

Alain F. Plante is a Professor and Faculty Director of the University Scholars Program at the University of Pennsylvania's School of Arts & Sciences. He holds a Ph.D. in Soil Science (2001) from the University of Alberta, an M.Sc. in Soil Science (1996) and B.Sc.(Eng.) in Environmental Engineering (1994) from the University of Guelph. His research focuses on terrestrial carbon biogeochemistry, examining mechanisms stabilizing/destabilizing soil organic carbon and its role in the global carbon cycle. Plante leads the Plante Lab, investigating soil sustainability and responses to climate change through field and experimental studies.

He teaches courses including Introduction to Environmental Science, Biogeochemistry, Soil Science, and Anthropocene studies. Affiliations include the CURF Biology Graduate Group and roles in academic leadership. His work bridges environmental science and engineering, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches to global environmental challenges.