Science that connects elements, ecosystems, and partners.
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The Elliott Biogeochemistry Lab at the University of Pittsburgh investigates how nutrient pollution, extreme events, invasive species, and built infrastructure reshape elemental cycling in watersheds, with direct consequences for water quality and ecosystem health. Our research spans western Pennsylvania and beyond, from mountainous headwater streams to river floodplains and urban waterways in Pittsburgh. We use stable isotopes of carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur to trace elements through water, soils, plants, food webs, and the atmosphere, connecting biogeochemical processes to the drivers reshaping them.
Our analytical home is the Pitt Isotope Tracers Lab, where we operate three continuous-flow isotope ratio mass spectrometer systems for measuring isotopic composition across a range of environmental matrices. Through the Pittsburgh Water Collaboratory, co-founded and chaired by Dr. Elliott, we partner with utilities, government agencies, and NGOs to connect our research to ensure our research addresses pressing water challenges. |
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