Our Research
Our lab studies single-celled organisms called bacteria and archaea involved in nutrient cycling, especially of the element nitrogen. Microbes that convert nitrogen among its various forms live in the ocean, coastal sediments, and soils. We experiment with these organisms in the lab, look for their DNA in the environment, and measure rates of the different chemical reactions they perform. We try to understand how and when they evolved, how they collaborate with other organisms, and how they keep our ocean clean.
Our research is funded by the National Science Foundation, NASA, the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, and the Simons Foundation.
Principal Investigator
Equity and Inclusion
We are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment for research and education. All lab members must be willing to educate themselves about what this means in the context of their scientific and professional careers.
