Climate and Environmental Interactions

Microbes are key players in the Earth’s ecosystems, driving processes like carbon cycling, nitrogen fixation and decomposition. As the climate changes, understanding microbial contributions to these processes is critical for addressing global environmental challenges. Researchers at Norwich Research Park investigate microbial roles in soil health, ocean ecosystems, and extreme environments as well as the vital role of metals in enzymatic processes.

Using tools like metagenomics and stable isotope probing, we explore how microbial communities adapt to changing temperatures, sea levels and other environmental shifts. These studies help uncover new microbial species and their functions, which could inform strategies for climate mitigation and biodiversity conservation.

Additionally, this research extends to applied solutions, such as using microbes for bioremediation of polluted environments or enhancing carbon sequestration. By integrating ecology, genomics and biochemistry, these efforts provide insights into safeguarding ecosystems and developing sustainable practices.