Puja Lamichhane

Role: HPQ Scholar

Degree: M.Sc.

Project: Role of soil health in determining phosphorus fertility recommendations in Ontario soils

Department: Department of Plant Agriculture, OAC

What inspired you to pursue your current degree? 

My interest in soil health and sustainable productivity led me to the University of Guelph to study Plant Agriculture.

What about your research area excites you? 

The contribution I can make to make the environment safe and sustainable motivates me.

What challenges do you find in your research, and how do you try to overcome them? 

Phosphorus is a major nutrient required for plants and is prone to leach. There is no substitute for phosphorus. Hence, we try to manage it by increasing its efficiency and decreasing its losses for good soil health.

How would you describe your research and the implications of your project? 

My research focuses on solving water quality issues caused by improper phosphorus fertilizer management in fields. People will learn more about phosphorus management as it is a non-renewable resource. Moreover, water pollution can be minimized by managing phosphorus which leads to better soil and environmental health.

What are three of your favorite activities outside the lab? 

I love reading, travelling to places and spending time with my family.

What is one important thing you have learned during the pandemic? 

I have learned to be grateful for what I have and make the most of every opportunity because you never know what tomorrow holds.