Development of DNA/RNA based analytical tools for the investigation of microbial community structure and function in composts, waste treatment processes and amended soils; engineering processes for efficient conversion of dairy and hog production wastes into composts and other value-added, transportable and stable products that reduce liquid use and air pollution; and characterizing the effects of composting and other waste management processes on xenobiotic chemical fates, plant disease suppressive microorganisms and human pathogens.