RESEARCH
Environmental Sampling
We seek to understand the complex interactions between microbes and their environment. We study agricultural soils in Auburn that have been treated with various fertilizers. We are specifically interested in understanding how the presence or absence of micronutrients (through fertilizer soil amendment) impacts the soil microbiome and the molecular mechanisms that organisms use to adapt to various environments.
Microbiome Analysis
Our goal is to compare the structure and function of soil microbiomes in soils treated with micronutrient-enriched fertilizers versus those treated with standard fertilizers. We use a combination of metagenomic and enrichment culture studies to understand community composition and function of microbes in these environments. We aim to advance our understanding of soil microbiology and the impact of fertilizer on microbial communities.
Molecular Studies
Our goal is to comprehend the molecular-level adaptation of microbes to varying micronutrient levels Our research will focus identifying the genetic and molecular mechanisms that contribute to metal resistance or sensitivity. To achieve this, we will employ a range of 'omics and targeted techniques to identify and analyze metal resistance genes in environmental bacteria.