What questions are you trying to answer and why?

We are trying to understand the role of the microbial community that lives in close association with Alvinella. A cDNA library will provide us with a catalog of genes that are expressed by the community and will give us a good idea of how the bacteria interact with their environment, with each other, and with their host.

Why is this research important? What are the benefits?

The organisms that live at hydrothermal vents survive and even thrive at extreme temperatures and pressures. We are interested in how these organisms have adapted to this environment. From a practical standpoint, cellular proteins (enzymes) that can withstand these temperatures and pressures are important in industry.

What's your educational background and what lured you into marine research?

I have an A.S. degree in Biology from SUNY Morrisville, a B.S. in chemistry from the University of Delaware, and a Ph.D. in biochemistry from the University of Delaware. I have always been interested in ocean life. Although most of my time is spent studying harmful algae in coastal waters, I’m lucky enough to work with people who are involved in deep-sea research. And every once in a while, I get invited to go along!