We combine molecular, biogeochemical and remote sensing approaches to determine microbial functionality and activity in the cryosphere, particularly with focus on glaciers and ice sheets (both supraglacial and subglacial habitats) and their downstream environments. Research in the group has demonstrated that microbial activity at the surface of glaciers and ice sheets are responsible for significant carbon cycling with implications for biogeochemical cycles at local and global scales. As part of DEEP PURPLE and ICEBIO projects, we are particularly interested in how the different actors in the ice microbial community (viruses, bacteria, fungi and algae) interact with each other and with their physical and chemical environment to build an ice sheet biome.
Members:
Relevant links: https://www.deeppurple-ercsyg.eu/home and https://www.icebio.eu/
Keywords: Glacial microbiology, glacial biogeochemistry, glacial forefields, glacial flour, glacial nutrient cycling, ice albedo, subglacial processes, molecular microbial ecology, remote sensing
