Professor Dr. Matthew Schrenk

Biography

Matthew O Schrenk is an Associate Professor in the Department of Earth & Environmental Sciences and the Department of Microbiology, Genetics, & Immunology at Michigan State University. His research focuses on subsurface environments, including both continental and oceanic habitats, and the laboratory studies of diversity, distribution, and activities of microorganisms in the deep subsurface biosphere. Using molecular biological approaches combined with geochemical analyses, he aims to understand high pH microbial ecosystems formed by serpentinization of ultramafic rocks deep in the Earth. Additionally, he investigates high temperature microbial ecosystems related to volcanically-driven hydrothermal venting in oceans. These studies provide critical insights into the contributions of subsurface microorganisms to the global carbon budget and have potential applications in biotechnology and alternative energy strategies.

Research Interests

Courses