Tom Sizmur

Tom Sizmur is a Professor at the University of Reading, specializing in soil science, environmental toxicology, and biogeochemical processes. His research focuses on soil microbial dynamics, biochar applications for contaminant remediation, mercury cycling, and the ecological impacts of earthworms on heavy metal mobility.

• Key Research Areas: Biochar for soil recovery, nitrogen and carbon cycling, earthworm-plant-soil interactions, and floodplain/marine ecosystem health.

Recent Publications (2022–2025): Sizmur's work examines how biochar and organic amendments immobilize heavy metals in contaminated soils, the role of soil microbial biomass in nitrogen retention from anaerobic digestate, and the influence of climate factors like temperature oscillations on soil respiration and microbial activity. He investigates microplastic fibers as mercury vectors and evaluates sustainable farming practices such as Zero Budget Natural Farming in India.

Collaborative Efforts: Sizmur collaborates with international researchers on topics spanning cocoa agroecosystems, heathland restoration, and pollutant source diagnostics in marine sediments. His studies often integrate multidisciplinary approaches to address soil fertility, contaminant management, and ecosystem sustainability.