Ecology

The research project we are working on focuses on the microbial ecology of denitrification.  Nitrogen exits the terrestrial system via denitrification, which is the transformation of bioavailable soil NO3- into gaseous N in the form of NO, N2O or N2.   The benefit is denitrification can reduce eutrophication of adjacent aquatic ecosystems.  The problem is that NO and N2O are greenhouse gases.  Our research aims to understand the role of microorganisms in regulating the production N2O during denitrification.