Natural molecular structures as drivers and tracers of terrestrial C fluxes (MOLTER)

A new paradigm for the formation, stabilisation and decomposition of complex organic compounds in the environments (e.g., organic matter in plants, litter, soils and water) is currently emerging from advanced techniques in dentification, quantification, and origin tracing of specific organic compounds and individual molecules. Examples of these techniques are 13C and 15N nuclear magnetic resonance, chemolyse and multiple pyrolysis systems associated with gas chromatography and isotopic mass ratio spectrometry (IRMS) and thermal analyses coupled to mass spectrometers (MS). Worldwide, applications of these techniques to terrestrial environments are prominently pioneered by the European laboratories involved in the present proposal. Typically, each participant to this proposed network investigates more specifically a main type of molecular structure through the application of one or more of the advanced techniques, or develops new modelling concepts adapted to these emerging datasets. The overall objective of this proposal is to increase the cohesion and the flow of information among the world-leading European laboratories involved in the present proposal in order to maintain and further develop our leading position in this field of research. More specifically an ESF research network will:

1) help with theoretical synthesis and identification of research needs at EU level though the development of a database,

2) facilitate the comparison and evaluation of advanced methods through scientific visits,

3) transfer knowledge by the training of PhD students at EU level through scientific visits and summer schools,

4) help cross-linking this mostly fundamental field of research with other disciplines (molecular biology and microbial ecology) and develop applied research projects at EU level (such as in FRP7), and

5) improve communication of fundamental research results to a wider audience.