Project Grant 2549584

The National Science Foundation Division of Environmental Biology awarded Cornell University $200,000 in project grant funding on September 1, 2026, under the Biological Sciences program (CFDA 47.074) to investigate how shifts in plant carbon allocation affect nutrient uptake and primary productivity in northern hardwood forests facing oligotrophication.

The research examines interactions between plant nitrogen and phosphorus availability and carbon partitioning across plant tissues to determine impacts on long-term forest health and productivity in the Northeastern U.S., where documented declines in nitrogen availability relative to plant demand have occurred since the end of the twentieth century. The project tests the hypothesis that long-term reductions in soil nitrogen and phosphorus availability drive increased transfer of carbon from aboveground to belowground plant tissue, thereby enhancing nutrient acquisition and partially offsetting nutrient decline.

Deliverables include training of the next generation of scientists in integrative biological science with applications in molecular and bioinformatic approaches to forest biogeochemistry, computational modeling, and mechanistic understanding of forest processes underpinning the U.S. bioeconomy. The award will also produce digital and printed fact sheets and bulletins for participating organizations and public distribution to local community members and K-12 students and teachers.

Performance of work occurs in Ithaca, New York, with a period of performance from September 1, 2026, through August 31, 2029. Cornell University's Office of Sponsored Programs administers the award.