kellymicroecolab
Microbial Ecology of Urban Streams
The world is becoming increasingly urban and understanding the consequences of urbanization for ecosystem processes is critical. In particular, understanding the effects of urban stressors on aquatic microbial communities will be necessary to manage ecological services provided by these ecosystems. Urban aquatic ecosystems suffer from altered hydrology and drainage patterns and contamination as part of the urban stream syndrome, but the overall ecological consequences of urbanization for the structure and function of microbial communities are not well understood. We are working with collaborators from from the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies and the Baltimore Ecosystem Study LTER to investigate the microbial ecology of urban streams in Chicago, IL and Baltimore, MD.
Microbial Interactions with Microplastics in Freshwater Ecosystems
Nearly 200 million metric tons of plastic are produced globally each year, and it is estimated that 10% of this plastic enters aquatic habitats. There is growing public concern about one specific class of plastic contaminants, microplastic, which is defined as less than 5mm in size. Recent studies have shown high microplastic concentrations in ocean habitats worldwide and in freshwaters in the Midwest, including the Great Lakes. Several studies have demonstrated extensive microbial colonization of these microplastics. We are working with collaborators from Loyola University Chicago and SUNY Fredonia to explore the interactions of environmental microplastics with microbial communities.
Environmental Impacts of Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products
Recent research has documented the presence of a variety of pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) in rivers and streams in the United States. PPCPs include prescription and over-the counter therapeutic drugs, antibacterial products such as soaps and detergents, as well as fragrances and cosmetics. The potential effects of these PPCPs on stream ecosystems remain largely unknown. We are working with collaborators from the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies to investigate the potential ecological effects of a range of PPCPs on the structure and function of bacterial communities in rivers and streams.
Environmental Impacts of Nanomaterials
Nanomaterials (NM) are engineered particles of extremely small size (at least one dimension of 100 nm or less). The small size of NM gives them many novel and useful properties and has led to their rapid incorporation into a wide variety of consumer products ranging from pharmaceuticals and cosmetics to tools and electronics. There is growing concern about the potential for unanticipated environmental consequences of these materials. We are working with collaborators from Northwestern University and the Loyola University Department of Environmental Sciences to assess the potential impacts of NM on microbial communities in aquatic ecosystems.
