Studying coastal oceanography and microbial community ecology.

Welcome to the Nelson Lab

University of Hawai'i at Mānoa

Our research generally examines the role of microbes in the ecology of aquatic ecosystems, with a particular focus on organic matter geochemistry and metagenomics.


Within this broad research umbrella, we have several themes of active inquiry listed below, with specific projects listed under each. In each area, we also affiliate with a number of long-term ecological research programs which help us contextualize our projects.

Our collaborators are diverse and critical to accomplishing the work we do. Every project we have is collaborative with other laboratories and includes training of both undergraduate and graduate students. We view these collaborations as central to the fabric of science, and are always happy to explore new projects with potential colleagues.