Microbes are the most abundant and biodiverse organisms on Earth. Recent advances in DNA sequencing have shown that there is a miniature, unexplored world all around us that is of vital importance for humans and for nature. Microbes represent an enormous genetic reservoir, containing millions of unknown genes that are potentially harmful or beneficial. Microbes are also the engines that drive cycles of nutrients, matter, and energy in all ecosystems. Until now, microbial communities have been treated as ‘black box’ in ecology; the goal of our research is to understand how microbial communities function and influence the surrounding ecosystem.
Learn more: RESEARCH
Contact
Dr. Thomas Bell
Imperial College London
Silwood Park Campus
Buckhurst Road, Ascot, Berkshire, SL5 7PY
thomas.bell{at}imperial.ac.uk
http://www.imperial.ac.uk/people/thomas.bell
Dr Thomas Bell 