QUALIFIED

Reverse weathering is the process that forms clay minerals through reactions that involve biologically produced silica. Carbon dioxide is a byproduct of reverse weathering and an important greenhouse gas. As a result, reverse weathering is considered an important process that has regulated global climate over the earth?s natural history. Prior studies that have examined reverse weathering have focused only on abiotic factors (i.e., factors not affected by biology). This research is the first to examine microbial effects on reverse weathering reactions. The project includes laboratory experiments with well-characterized microbial strains. These experiments will provide understanding of this complicated process in a controlled environment. Follow-up experiments and surveys will be conducted in the northern Gulf of Mexico during two field campaigns led by the scientific team. This project contributes to scientific education and development at many levels. The graduate and postgraduate personnel will learn interdisciplinary approaches and collaborate with an international expert in reverse weathering research. Undergraduate trainees from local community colleges will receive paid internships. The project supports high school education in marine science through a partnership with the Dauphin Island Sea Lab Discovery Hall Program.