Cinzia Fissore

Associate Professor of Environmental Science

Department of Biology and Environmental Science
Roy E. and Marie G. Campbell Distinguished Chair in Biology
Science & Learning Center 342
562.907.5072
cfissore@whittier.edu

Academic History

B.S., University of Torino
Ph.D., Michigan Technological University

Academic Interests

  • Soil science 
  • Biogeochemistry 
  • Carbon cycling
  • Plant-soil nutrient cycling

Bio

Professor Fissore has over 15 years of research experience in the field of soil science and terrestrial biogeochemistry across ecosystems, from forest to urban ecosystems, which have led to a number of peer reviewed publications and other relevant reports and documents. Her work focuses on understanding the role of soil carbon in offsetting CO2 emissions to the atmosphere and, therefore, mitigating climate change. Through synergistic and multi-disciplinary activities, Dr. Fissore has conducted work for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources, and the U.S.D.A. Forest Service, and non-profit organizations. She has led a series in-depth investigations pertaining to environmental issues and sustainability across the world, and conducted projects focused on best practices and effective integration of local ecological and cultural priorities within a solution-centered approach to pressing environmental challenges.

Selected Publications

  • Dalzell, B., Fissore, C., Nater, E.A. 2022. Topography and land use impact erosion and soil organic carbon burial over decadal timescales. Catena (in press)
  • Fissore, C., Nater, E., McFarlane, K., Klein, A. 2019. ­Decadal carbon decomposition dynamics in three peatlands in Northern Minnesota. Biogeochemistry DOI:10.1007/s10533-019-00591-4(01234567
  • Fissore, C., Zappia, N. 2019. Experimenting with new crops at the peri-urban fringe. Current Investigations in Agriculture and Current Research DOI: 10.32474/CIACR.2019.06.000245
  • Swanston, L. Fissore, C., Solorza, R. 2018. Providing Opportunities for Argumentation in Science Exam Settings. College Science Teaching 47(3): 16-21
  • Fissore, C., Giardina, C.P., Jurgensen, M.F., Page-Dumroese, D., Pickens, J. 2017. Role of Soil Texture, Clay Mineralogy, Location and Temperature in Coarse Wood Decomposition- A mesocosm approach. Ecosphere 7 e01605 
  • Fissore, C., Dalzell, B. J., Berhe, A.A., Voegtle, M., Evans, M., Wu, A. 2016. Influence of topography on SOC dynamic in a Southern California grassland. Catena 149: 140-149
  • Fissore, C., Duran, D.F., Russell, R. 2015. Opportunities and best practices to support sustainable production for small growers and post-harvest processors in southern California. Journal of Extension 53 (6), #6TOT10
  • Fissore, C., Giardina, C.P., Kolka, R.K. 2013. Reduced substrate supply limits the temperature response of soil organic carbon decomposition. Soil Biology and Biochemistry 67: 306-311