LIFE AT THE EDGE: CLAY MINERALOGY, MICROBIOLOGY, AND THE INTERNATIONAL KAMCHATKA MICROBIAL OBSERVATORY

摘要

New challenges abound in the area of integrated clay mineral and microbiological studies. Both fields are dedicated to finding ways to better characterize micron to molecular scale structures and to more fully understand the biogeochemical pathways used in response to environmental change. One approach to fostering progress in these two fields is to establish large collaborative groups, such as the Kamchatka Microbial Observatory (KMO). The KMO is situated in the Uzon Caldera, which is a large geothermal area located in Far Eastern Russia. This collaborative effort includes U.S. and Russian scientists with a wide variety of skills and skill levels (undergraduate students, graduate students, post-docs, and senior researchers). If successful outcomes are to be expected with this approach the effort must be based on holistic guiding principles that take full advantage of the differing cultural backgrounds, skill levels, areas of expertise, and environmental settings. The following perspectives from U.S. mid-career earth scientists studying terrestrial hot springs are offered to advance integration efforts. Whether you are a senior level scientist or a beginning graduate student, the following are likely to be true.