Yuji Arai

Yuji Arai is an Associate Professor in the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois. His research focuses on environmental geochemistry, soil mineralogy, and biogeochemical processes involving iron oxides, phosphate dynamics, and organic-mineral interactions. He has received notable awards including the Jackson Soil Chemistry and Mineralogy Award (2016) and the NACTA Educator Award (2017).

His work investigates mechanisms of phosphorus mineralization, ferrihydrite transformation under various geochemical conditions, and the role of extracellular polymeric substances in biogeochemical cycles. Recent studies address the impact of carbonate and Fe(II) on mineral stability, as well as the environmental fate of organic phosphorus in agricultural systems.

• Awards:
  • Jackson Soil Chemistry and Mineralogy Award (2016)
  • Lloyd R. Frederick Soil Teaching Travel Study Award (2021)
  • NACTA Educator Award (2017)
• Research Themes:
  • Iron oxide mineral transformation
  • Phosphate adsorption and desorption
  • Organic matter-mineral interactions
  • Environmental geochemistry of phosphorus
  • Soil contaminant transport

Dr. Arai's publications (99+) emphasize interdisciplinary approaches combining spectroscopic techniques (NMR, XAS) with field and laboratory experiments to understand biogeochemical processes in soils and aquatic systems. His work has significant implications for agricultural sustainability and environmental remediation strategies.