The University of California, Santa Barbara, through its Office of Research, has been awarded a $300,785 Project Grant from the National Science Foundation's Geosciences Program (CFDA 47.050) to conduct fundamental research on the chemical composition and bioavailability of dissolved organic matter released by marine nitrifiers. The goal is to improve understanding of the role that marine nitrifiers play in ocean carbon cycling and to enhance biogeochemical models. The project aims to determine the quantity, composition, and metabolic cost of dissolved organic matter released by nitrifiers, as well as identify which heterotrophic organisms may utilize this carbon source in the mesopelagic ocean. The research will involve laboratory studies, field campaigns, and collaborations with other institutions to provide the most thorough characterization of this process to date. In addition to the scientific impacts, the project includes mentoring opportunities for undergraduates, educational outreach to middle and high school girls, and public engagement through science-art collaborations.
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