Introduction to Geomicrobiology

The field of geomicrobiology lies at the crossroads of geology and microbiology, where the principles and tools of microbiology are applied to the geosciences to explore the effect of microbes on geological and geochemical processes. Emphasis in this course will be placed on the ways in which uni-cellular life has impacted and continues to shape the geological landscape. We will focus on the interplay between abiotic and biotic processes in the global element cycles in the geosphere (rocks, minerals, soils, and sediments), the atmosphere, and the hydrosphere.

This course introduces students of the geosciences to some of the main themes of geomicrobiology. Lessons are included on cell structure, shape, function and key pathways of energy transfer between microbes and the terrestrial and aqueous environment. Microbial metabolic pathways and their importance for major element cycles (C, N, S, P, Fe/Mn) will be discussed along with biomineralization mechanisms and the differences between biogenic and abiogenic minerals. The final part of the course will place this theoretical background into case studies dealing with the evolution of life on Earth and other planets, as well as modern environmental issues (i.e., pollutant remediation in surface and groundwater, plastic and other contaminants in the marine environment). The course includes lecture, exercises and a field/lab component.

The themes of the course are:

The microbial world & microbial respiration

Microbial metabolism

The key element cycles

Biomineralization

Microorganisms and earth history

Microorganisms and environmental challenges