Our research explores how living systems have come to use different chemical elements over Earth’s history. We combine geochemical and biological approaches, drawing on ancient materials, molecular experiments, and observations from modern natural systems.
What were the abundances and sources of metals involved in N2 fixation on early Earth?
By determining the metal conditions of early Earth and understanding their relevance in ancient environments we can better understand the emergence and evolution of processes required for life, such as nitrogen fixation. This allows us to gain insight into the planet side of “planet-life coevolution” theory on Earth.
What were the biological metal demands of N2 fixation on early Earth?
This initiative aims to better understand the life side of “planet-life coevolution” theory on Earth. Studying the metal requirements of past and present nitrogen fixation biochemistries in vivo and in vitro will help us break down the key incremental steps needed for Earth life element selection.
How Did Life’s Key Chemistries Begin?
We investigate the earliest chemistries by studying ancient atmospheres, surface environments, and the elemental building blocks available at the dawn of our planet. From there, we work to understand how these conditions shaped the evolution of crucial metabolic pathways that made Earth’s biosphere possible. Now, we’re expanding our focus to estimate how much variation early biochemical systems could tolerate while still allowing life to emerge. Ultimately, this work provides a framework for thinking about how life might arise on other worlds and what signs of life we should look for beyond Earth.
Every element contributes uniquely to biochemical functions and has been acted upon by natural selection for eons. Only when we understand those contributions and processes, can we begin to understand the foundation of life on Earth, and how we recognize the potential for life in other worlds.
