Chris Shepard

Chris Shepard is an Assistant Professor at the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment within the University of Kentucky. His research focuses on soil science, mineralogy, and environmental chemistry, with particular emphasis on carbon sequestration, nutrient cycling, and soil health evaluation using advanced analytical methods.

• Education:
  • Ph.D., Soil, Water, and Environmental Science, University of Arizona (2018)
  • M.S., Soil, Water, and Environmental Science, University of Arizona (2014)
  • B.S., Environmental Science, University of Virginia (2011)
  • Jackson River Governor's School, Dabney S. Lancaster Community College (2007)

His recent publications highlight expertise in:

• Soil mineralogy and phosphorus dynamics in limestone-derived soils
• Fragipan genesis and amelioration strategies
• Applications of mid-infrared spectroscopy for soil health assessment
• Three-dimensional prediction of soil properties in forested catchments
• Climate change impacts on pedogenic processes

Current research explores mineral-associated organic matter stabilization, enhanced weathering for carbon sequestration, and topographic controls on soil development in karst systems. His work integrates field studies with analytical chemistry and computational modeling to address fundamental questions in soil science and environmental sustainability.