In her study, she found out that marine bacteria really like complex polymers, and that this attraction gets stronger when a certain substance produced by phytoplankton, DMSP, is in their surrounding environment. These polymers, also called polysaccharides, are a big source of carbon in the ocean and are made by algae using CO2.
By understanding more about how marine microbes work and cycle carbon in the ocean, we can further understand global geochemical processes, better predict future climate events and take action. This work was done in collaboration with multiple members of the Simons-funded PriME consortium and further colleagues worldwide.
Estelle is now using her research findings to develop her new company, CellX Biosolutions.
Congratulations Estelle!