Behrens Lab

We are a microbial ecology lab. Our interdisciplinary research interests combine environmental biotechnology, engineering, biogeochemistry, and molecular biology. Through our research we gain insights into the ‘lifestyle’ of microorganisms by linking the quantification of microbiological processes to the in situ activity and dynamics of microbial populations at various temporal and spatial scales in natural and engineered environments. Research topics comprise fundamental and applied studies such as removing nutrients and contaminants from wastewater, mine drainage, and agricultural runoff. Thereby we strive to develop new bio-based processes to capture valuable products from waste streams (e.g. energy carriers, nutrients, and metals).