We study the physiology and biochemistry of deep sea microorganisms, with an emphasis on carbon and nitrogen metabolism, to better understand their role in mediating local and global biogeochemical cycles. We also study the physiological relationships (such as nutrient exchange and immune responses) between microbes and animals in natural systems. To that end, we apply traditional or modern geochemical and molecular technologies, or develop new techniques when necessary, to interrogate physiological and biochemical processes in natural systems or laboratory simulations.
Hydrothermal vents - like the one to the left in the Guaymas Basin - are host to some of the most chemo- and thermotolerant microbes and animals on Earth.
