We comprise 28 staff and students with skills spanning biochemistry to ecology and molecular biology to mathematical modelling .
Our Department’s activities focus predominantly on marine micro-organisms, including viruses, bacteria, algae and protozoa and other eukaryotic protists. These organisms are extremely abundant and active in the marine environment and, despite their small size, are the main drivers of marine ecosystems and nutrient cycles. They therefore play a major role in global climate and life-support systems. Marine microbial communities encompass huge biodiversity and exhibit a diverse array of physiological and biochemical adaptations enabling them to thrive in a variety of environments. This makes them a rich biological resource including a useful source of novel compounds for biotechnological applications. The study of marine microbes is clearly important; however they are also beautiful and fascinating to observe under the microscope!
A wide range of fundamental and applied research projects are currently underway within our Department employing observational, experimental and modelling approaches to investigate the biology and ecology of microbes in coastal and ocean habitats from the tropics to the poles. We also conduct research on marine macro-algae (seaweeds). Key areas of research include:
The Department hosts the UK Culture Collection of Algae and Protozoa (CCAP); houses the molecular biology, microscopy and other facilities at SAMS and provides a microplankton analysis service to external customers. We are also engaged in a wide range of public outreach and educational activities .
