Barret Wessel

Barret Wessel is an Assistant Professor of Pedology in the Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences at Michigan State University (MSU), within the College of Agriculture & Natural Resources. His research focuses on soil genesis, morphology, and management, particularly in wetland, subaqueous, and urban soils. He also investigates pedagogical approaches to enhance learning in earth and environmental sciences, serving as coach of the MSU Soil Judging Team. His work integrates field experiences and professional development to improve student outcomes.

Education: A.A. in Environmental Science (Howard Community College, 2012), B.S. in Environmental Science and Technology (University of Maryland, 2014), Graduate Certificate in Historic Preservation (2020), and Ph.D. in Soil and Watershed Science (University of Maryland, 2020). Professional experience includes roles as Visiting Assistant Professor at the University of Mary Washington and Research Soil Scientist at USDA-ARS.

Research Interests: Subaqueous soils in Chesapeake Bay, soil pedagogy, restoration ecology, and anthropogenic soil systems. Key projects include evaluating soil-landscape conceptual models, supporting oyster aquaculture, and analyzing freshwater salinization syndrome impacts.

Publications focus on subaqueous pedology, environmental modeling, and interdisciplinary education. Awards include NSF Graduate Research Fellowship (2017–2020) and Fulbright Student Fellowship (2016–2017).

Teaching includes courses on soil science fundamentals and hydrogeology. He actively engages in service, including advocacy for soil science funding and editorial roles with professional journals.