Andrea (Andi) Jilling, PI

ajilling@mailbox.sc.edu

Andi leads the lab’s research and teaches courses within the Department of Environmental Health Sciences (ENHS 321 and ENHS 862). She completed her Bachelor of Science in Botany at McGill University and then pursued her PhD in Earth and Environmental Science at the University of New Hampshire. She joined the University of South Carolina in 2023.

Megha Singh, PhD Student

Megha is a second-year PhD student in the lab. Her research explores how geochemistry and plant litter quality influence nitrogen release from clay mineral–associated pools of organic matter. She uses stable isotopes to trace the fate of nitrogen in organic matter. Her master’s work at the University of Wyoming focused on soil health and continues to guide her interests. She is passionate about contributing to soil and crop sciences through her research, with the goal of supporting healthier ecosystems. Outside the lab, she enjoys hiking, traveling, and binge-watching Netflix.

Kejsi Gjini, Master’s Student

Kejsi joined the lab in Summer 2024 as an undergraduate research assistant majoring in environmental studies. Upon receiving his bachelor's degree, Kejsi was brought on as a Masters student while pursuing the MEERM program. Kejsi’s research explores how different dispersion techniques in soil organic matter fractionation influence the isolation and interpretation of mineral-associated organic matter carbon storage.

Madelyn Confare, Undergraduate Research Assistant

Madelyn joined the lab in Fall 2024. She is an undergraduate at UofSC studying Civil Engineering with a minor in Environmental and Sustainable Engineering. Madelyn is interested in how soil organic matter interacts with natural cycles so she can become a more environmentally conscious engineer with a comprehensive perspective.

Lemon Washer, Undergraduate Research Assistant

Lemon joined the Lab in the spring of 2025. He is an undergraduate student at UofSC studying mathematics and Environmental Science. He is interested in understanding how soil affects our natural and social environments.

Kenna Bunnell, Undergraduate Research Assistant

Kenna joined the lab in Summer 2025. She is an undergraduate Environmental Science major at UofSC on the pre-law track. Kenna is interested in soil carbon sequestration and how soil operates as a vital component in regulating natural processes and ecosystems. She hopes to become an environmental lawyer and utilize her scientific background to gain a more holistic perspective on environmental policy.