Research

Research in my laboratory is in the general areas of microbial physiology and ecology. We routinely develop and apply techniques of molecular biology to explore the diversity of microbial communities without the potential bias introduced by cultivation methods. We then use this phylogenetic information to guide cultivation efforts and design nucleic acid probes that permit quantitative assessment of the structure of microbial communities. We are currently focusing our efforts on soil communities at the Kellogg Biological Station Long Term Ecological Research Site, are beginning to see patterns of diversity in these microbial ecosystems. We also continue to explore other environements including medically important niches.
As we develop a better appreciation for the structure of microbial communities, we are also conducting research to uncover mechanisms that drive the patterns of distribution. Of particular interest to me is the potential to use genome sequences to understand life history characteristics of microbes. We have recently identified one feature of the genome, the number of ribosomal RNA operons, that is related to the ecological strategies of bacteria. As the collection of novel microbial isolates expands and their genome sequences are determined, we will use this information to develop a better understanding for the evolution and ecology of natural microbial communities.
Prior to initiating a research program in microbial ecology, I conducted research focused on the physiology of sulfur bacteria and bioluminescent bacteria. I frequently use my background in bacterial physiology to help understand the ecological issues that we are currently addressing.

Publications

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