On the other hand, Pace is a microbial ecologist. His laboratory has led the field in the development and use of molecular tools to study microbial ecosystems. This work has led to the discovery of many novel organisms and an understanding of some unusual symbioses. Current efforts range from high-temperature environments and microbial ecosystems involved in bioremediation to human pathogens. He has received a number of awards, for instance the 1996 Procter and Gamble Award in Applied and Environmental Microbiology from the American Society for Microbiology.
Pace also admits to being a bit of an adventurer.
For many years he has been involved in exploring, mapping and studying caves. He has led and participated in numerous expeditions in this country and internationally. Pace has been elected a Fellow of both the National Speleological Society and the Explorers Club, and he received the L. Bicking Award from the former for his contributions to American caving.