We study organic matter from microbes, environmental samples and rocks. Ancient rocks and oils contain a rich abundance of hidden information within, including molecular and isotopic signatures of the biota existing at the time the organic matter was formed. The goal of our research, then, is to extract and interpret these signals, in order to reconstruct ancient environments and understand how life evolved within them.

Such interaction of the geosphere and the biosphere is how we define the field of geobiology. Through this study, we hope to get closer to the origins of oxygenic photosynthesis, about 3 billion years ago, and the conditions that led to the appearance of animal life on earth. The techniques we develop might eventually help to detect signs of life on other planets, the science known as Astrobiology. Our lab is funded by the NASA Astrobiology Institute where we host the MIT Team.

Recent Publications

Bradley et al., 2009. Extraordinary 13C enrichment of diether lipids at the Lost City Hydrothermal Field indicates a carbon-limited ecosystem. (PDF)

Grosjean et al., 2009. Origin of petroleum in the Neoproterozoic–Cambrian South Oman Salt Basin. (PDF)

Love et al., 2009. Fossil steroids record the appearance of Demospongiae during the Cryogenian period. (PDF)

Waldbauer et al., 2009. Late Archean molecular fossils from the Transvaal Supergroup record the antiquity of microbial diversity and aerobiosis. (PDF)