Our team uses cutting edge analytical equipment and a transdisciplinary approach to explore new frontiers in science. We use computer modeling, stable isotope geochemistry, microcosm culture experiments, and field data (mostly from Ocean Drilling Expeditions) to investigate the feedbacks between life and geological processes. That is, how life has adapted to its ever changing surroundings, and how life has played a role in shaping its surroundings (think the rise of atmospheric oxygen as a result of photosynthetic activity). We currently do specific research in the following areas:

1) Biological and paleoceanograhic questions relating to perturbations of the global carbon and sulfur cycles, as well as deep time climate change.

2) Sediment geochemical work related sulfate reducing bacteria in the deep biosphere and sulfate/carbon cycling across the sulfate/methane interface.

3) Fluid flow in active and passive continental margins (offshore Vancouver Island and offshore South Australia).

For more information, visit the Geobiology Isotope Laboratory Website

or contact Prof. Ulrich Wortmann

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