Thomas Muratore
Research Associate; Post-Doctoral Scholar
Thomas is a postdoctoral researcher at Dartmouth College, studying how environmental changes, including soil warming and nitrogen enrichment, affect forest carbon cycling. His research integrates both above- and belowground perspectives, with a particular focus on the often-overlooked belowground processes, such as root dynamics and soil carbon stabilization. By examining the unique nutrient use and acquisition strategies of common New England tree species like Acer (maples) and Quercus (oaks), Thomas aims to better predict the strength of the New England forest carbon sink under various global change scenarios. He is particularly interested in how these species’ distinct carbon allocation patterns to root processes influence ecosystem carbon gain and loss. Through this work, Thomas seeks to understand how, why, and where New England forests exchange carbon with the atmosphere.
Thomas enjoys long-distance cycling and exploring the outdoors, often combining his love for fitness with a passion for nature. He has a deep interest in environmental conservation and climate resilience, which ties into his professional pursuits. Outside of work, Thomas loves spending time with friends and family. He finds joy in engaging with community initiatives, particularly those that promote wellness, sustainability, and meaningful causes, like hosting charity events. Thomas also values quiet moments, whether diving into a good book, experimenting with cooking, or reflecting on life’s bigger questions.
Education
Ph.D. Earth and Environmental Sciences (Training: Ecosystem Ecology and Soil Biogeochemistry), University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH
M.S. Plant and Soil Science (Training: Agronomy and Soil Science), University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
B.S. Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Mary Washington, Fredericksburg, VA
Selected Publications
Knorr, M. A., Contosta, A. R., Morrison, E. W., Muratore, T. J., Anthony, M. A., Stoica, I., Geyer, K. M., Simpson, M. J., & Frey, S. D. (2024). Unexpected sustained soil carbon flux in response to simultaneous warming and nitrogen enrichment compared with single factors alone. Nature Ecology & Evolution, 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41559-024-02546-x
*Chari, N. R., *Muratore, T. J., Frey, S. D., Winters, C. L., Martinez, G., & Taylor, B. N. (2024). Long-Term Soil Warming Drives Different Belowground Responses in Arbuscular Mycorrhizal and Ectomycorrhizal Trees. Global Change Biology, 30(11), e17550. https://doi.org/10.1111/gcb.17550 (*co-first authors).
Muratore, T. J., Knorr, M. A., Simpson, M. J., Stephens, R. B., Phillips, R. P., & Frey, S. D. (2024). Response of Root Respiration to Warming and Nitrogen Addition Depends on Tree Species. Global Change Biology, 30(10), e17530. https://doi.org/10.1111/gcb.17530
San Román, A. X., Srikanthan, N., Hamid, A. A., Muratore, T. J., Knorr, M. A., Frey, S. D., & Simpson, M. J. (2024). Long-term warming in a temperate forest accelerates soil organic matter decomposition despite increased plant-derived inputs.Biogeochemistry. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10533-024-01165-9
Stoica, I., Tabatabaei Anaraki, M., Muratore, T.J., Knorr, M., Frey, S. D., & Simpson, M. J. (2023). Chronic Warming and Nitrogen-Addition Alter Soil Organic Matter Molecular Composition Distinctly in Tandem Compared to Individual Stressors. ACS Earth and Space Chemistry, 7(3), 609–622. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsearthspacechem.2c00380
Connect with Thomas
Steele Hall, Room 105A