Early Career Perspectives to Broaden the Scope of Critical Zone Science

Abstract

Critical Zone (CZ) scientists have advanced understanding of Earth's surface through process-based research that quantifies water, energy, and mass fluxes in predominantly undisturbed systems. However, the CZ is being increasingly altered by humans through climate and land use change. Expanding the scope of CZ science to include both human- and non-human controls on the CZ is important for understanding anthropogenic impacts to Earth's surface processes and ecosystem services. Here, we share perspectives from predominantly U.S.-based, early career CZ scientists centered around broadening the scope of CZ science to focus on societally relevant science through a transdisciplinary science framework. We call for increased training on transdisciplinary methods and collaboration opportunities across disciplines and with stakeholders to foster a scientific community that values transdisciplinary science alongside physical science. Here, we build on existing transdisciplinary research frameworks by highlighting the need for institutional support to include and educate graduate students throughout the research processes. We also call for graduate-student-led initiatives to increase their own exposure to transdisciplinary science through activities such as transdisciplinary-focused seminars and symposiums, volunteering with local conservation groups, and participating in internships outside academia.