Microorganisms control the earth's environment through an astonishing array of chemical processes.
Yet, geochemists often ignore biotic processes in the environment because of ignorance of biological systems. Unfortunately, few scientists are prepared to address biogeochemical questions due to cross-disciplinary differences in vocabulary, technique, and scientific paradigm. Thus biologists, geochemists, and engineers each bring a narrow view to the study of environmental systems even though new techniques create great opportunities for advancement. Students will work within a team with advisors from two disciplines and will continue with funded biogeochemical research following the National Science Foundation support. BRIE will also host an undergraduate summer internship program to place interested undergrads into the laboratories of BRIE faculty.