My research integrates across the fields of microbial ecology, biogeochemistry and ecosystem ecology.  Microbial community composition and biogeochemical cycling regulate ecosystem functions such as primary productivity, nutrient availability, and carbon flux; thus, the three fields are closely intertwined.  This interdisciplinary research draws on skills in analytical chemistry, microbiological assays, and molecular techniques to better understand how microbes control ecosystem-level nutrient fluxes.  My work increases our understanding of how microbes interact with their environment to affect biogeochemical cycles.  My research also has valuable connections to environmental concerns including global change, the effects of land-use change on aquatic ecosystems and aquatic eutrophication.