We study how microbes respond to environmental stress and pollution, and how they influence host, ecosystem, and human health. We are especially interested in microbial communities that live on and within important host organisms such as shellfish, which we study in both marine and freshwater systems.

 

We use complimentary approaches including experimental laboratory systems, fieldwork, molecular microbiology, and genomics-based techniques (especially high-throughput nucleic acid sequencing). Our goal is to make discoveries about microbial processes and interactions that can help support healthy, resilient aquatic systems and protect public health. We hope to apply what we learn towards developing microbial-driven solutions to emerging problems facing humans and the environment.