BIO: I am an experienced microbiologist with about two decades of expertise in microbial culturing (aerobic, anaerobic and high-pressure) and ecophysiology. Till now, I have discovered >38 novel taxa of prokaryotes from diverse environments. I am always excited to cultivate (and to learn the growth requirements of) new life forms (e.g., bacteria, archaea, and sponges) that can significantly contribute to biotechnological applications.