Her research primarily focuses on biogeochemical cycling of essential elements (esp. carbon and nitrogen) in the soil system and how physical perturbations in the environment (ex. erosion, fire, changes in climate) affects stability and mechanisms of stabilization of soil organic matter. Asmeret has a BSc in Soil & Water Conservation from the University of Asmara, a M.Sc. in Resource Development from Michigan State, and a Ph.D. in Environmental Science, Policy, & Management from UC-Berkeley.