Biogeochemistry Grand Challenge
A Grand Challenge in biogeochemistry, led by PNNL scientists Dr. John Zachara and Dr. Jim Fredrickson is studying how organisms exchange energy and electron flux with mineral matter in soils, sediments, and subsurface materials. This exchange occurs across a mineral-microbe interface that is a minute, but chemically active domain whose molecular workings have perplexed scientists for decades. The biogeochemistry Grand Challenge will use advanced instrumental capabilities and the high performance computing capabilities of EMSL to understand the biologic and physical architecture of this remarkably complex domain and the microbe-mediated chemical reactions that occur within it. The research will allow scientists to understand this most basic earth-life interaction that is fundamental to the migration of environmental contaminants, to water quality, and to soil fertility and trace metal availability.
Lead Investigators:
John Zachara, EMSL | john.zachara@pnl.gov | (509) 371-6549
Jim Fredrickson, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory | jim.fredrickson@pnl.gov | (509) 376-7063
