Jorge Mataix Solera

Jorge Mataix-Solera is a Professor of Soil Science at the University Miguel Hernández (UMH) in Elche, Spain, where he serves as Associate Dean of Communication and Projection in the Faculty of Experimental Sciences. His academic work focuses on soil science, particularly soil conservation and the effects of forest fires on Mediterranean soils, with extensive fieldwork in Spain, Chilean Patagonia, and the Peruvian Andes.

His primary research interests include:

• Soil conservation and degradation processes
• Effects of forest fires on soil physical and chemical properties
• Soil water repellency and aggregate stability mechanisms
• Mediterranean soil ecosystems and fire ecology
• Post-fire soil recovery and management strategies
• Soil biodiversity and microbial community dynamics

Dr. Mataix-Solera's recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on biocrust development in fire-affected soils, the molecular characterization of soil organic compounds like glomalin, and innovative approaches to soil quality assessment following wildfire events. His work spans diverse geographical contexts while maintaining a consistent emphasis on understanding soil degradation processes and developing sustainable management practices.

His notable scientific achievements include:

• Teaching Talent Award at UMH (2015, 2018, 2020, 2022, 2024)
• Honorary Member of the Latin American Soil Science Society (2025)
• Inclusion in the ranking of the 2% most cited scientists worldwide (AD Scientific Index)
• Recognition as a Top Environmental Sciences Scientist in Spain

As an academic advisor, he has supervised 9 PhD students and participated in over 30 research projects related to forest fires and soil conservation. He serves as President of the Spanish Society of Soil Science (2017-2025) and maintains international collaborations with researchers from the UK, Slovakia, Italy, Chile, Peru, Bolivia, USA, Russia, and Australia. His editorial work includes positions with Soil, Geoderma, and the Spanish Journal of Soil Science.

Dr. Mataix-Solera leads the Soil Science and environmental technologies research group at UMH, which operates field sites including the Mariola fire-affected study area that serves as an 'open laboratory' for researchers, land managers, and students. His team's work integrates soil physical, chemical, and biological analyses to understand fire impacts and recovery processes across multiple temporal scales.