Symbiotic carbon dioxide fixation in the deep-sea

The deep-sea is a cold, dark and nutrient-poor environment, yet many higher organisms, such a sponge and corals thrive in it. Many microorganisms can fix carbon dioxide using unusual biochemical pathways and inorganic compounds as energy source (Garritano et al. PNAS Nexus 2022). We hypothesised that many deep-sea organisms rely on symbiotic interactions with these carbon-fixing microorganisms to support their growth.

This project will explore this hypothesis through deep-sea expeditions, -omcis analysis, metabolic modelling and isotope analysis.

The outcome of this research will provide insight into the potential of the deep sea to sequester carbon dioxide and thus contribute to mitigating global warming.

How to Apply

Express your interest in this project by emailing Professor Torsten Thomas. Include a copy of your CV and your academic transcript(s).