Dawn Cardace Lab

Dr. Dawn Cardace

Dr. Cardace is an associate professor at the University of Rhode Island. Her lab focuses on how microbes interact with earth materials to change earth as a system.

In particular, her research examines biogeochemical processes in low energy environments, such as cool, dark, low energy settings in deep sea sediments and ophiolites (a form of igneous rock) undergoing changes, in an effort to better understand the relationship between the geosphere and life.

To study these processes, Dr. Cardace's lab utilizes various skills/techniques, which include:

• Microscopy

  • ex. scanning electron microscopes

• X Ray diffraction (XRD)

  • Gives mineral structure

• Raman spectroscopy

  • A technique used to determine vibrational modes of molecules

• Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy

  • A technique used to observe an infrared spectrum of absorption or emission of a solid, liquid or gas.

• Photography

• Writing practice with undergraduates

  • For scholarships, etc.

According to Dr. Cardace, "As long as you’re organized and interested, no prior experience is required". Right now, no grants are available for this lab, but academic credit can be earned.

Dr. Cardace does recruiting for her lab in her 300 level course, GEO 320, however students that are interested in Dr. Cardace's lab are encouraged to contact her at cardace@uri.edu.