Explo­ring Novel Micro­bial Linea­ges and their Adap­ta­ti­ons to Extreme Envi­ron­ments

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Seminar of the Department of Microbiology

 

Paloma Gea – PhD candidate – UIBK – Environmental OMICS

12.06.2025, 11:00 - Hybrid

  • Join online
  • or in presence: Seminarraum Biologie - Foyer (Technikerstraße 25, Viktor-Franz-Hess Haus, Parterre).

 

 Abstract

Paloma

The marine deep subsurface is one of Earth's most under-explored biomes, comprised of diverse microbial taxa. Conditions are challenging, characterised by carbon and energy constraints, extreme temperatures and high pressure. In response, microbes from the subseafloor have evolved distinct traits to cope with these conditions, including unique enzymes, synthetic gene clusters and biomolecules. These novel biomolecules have untapped potential, with possible uses in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and bioremediation. Subseafloor microbial communities also play a key role in global processes, including biogeochemical and nutrient cycles. This PhD project aims to uncover novel lineages from marine subseafloor environments, and investigate their ecological significance and functional potential. Sediment samples were collected from sites in the Pacific Ocean during International Ocean Drilling Project (IODP) expeditions. Using metagenomic sequencing, we aim to recover high quality MAGs from the sediment samples, identify novel lineages and explore their metabolic pathways. Enrichment cultures of novel microbes will support single cell genomics and aid in silico predictions. We also aim to recover and characterise viral genomes, to better understand their interactions with microbial hosts and the role they play in the subseafloor ecosystem. This research contributes to our understanding of deep subsurface microbiology, ecosystem function and the potential for discovery of novel biomolecules with industrial or biomedical relevance. 

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