Alumnus from Scripps Recognized with Award for Research and Mentorship
Edward DeLong Receives Prestigious ASM Award for Pioneering Work in Marine Microbiology
Edward DeLong, a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), has been selected to receive the 2009 American Society for Microbiology (ASM) D.C. White Research and Mentoring Award. This honour, which recognises interdisciplinary scientific approach and dedication as a mentor, was established to commemorate the late David C. White, a renowned microbiologist.
DeLong's groundbreaking research in marine microbiology has significantly advanced our understanding of the role and diversity of microorganisms in the ocean. His pioneering work on anaerobic methane-oxidizing bacteria and archaea has shed light on the intricate ecological relationships within marine environments.
One of DeLong's most notable achievements is the development and application of cultivation-independent techniques such as 16S rRNA gene sequencing. This method has enabled the identification and classification of previously unknown marine microbes, including those involved in anaerobic methane oxidation—a crucial microbial process that reduces methane emissions by coupling methane oxidation to sulfate reduction.
DeLong's research has elucidated the role and diversity of anaerobic methane-oxidizing archaea (ANME) and their syntrophic partnerships with sulfate-reducing bacteria. His work has expanded our knowledge of marine microbial ecology, influencing the field's approach to studying environmental microbiomes using metagenomics and single-cell genomics.
During his postdoctoral training at Indiana University, Bloomington, DeLong conducted some of the first molecular studies of microscopic phytoplankton called picoplankton. He received his Ph.D. from UC San Diego in 1986.
ASM, the world's oldest and largest life science organization with over 43,000 members worldwide, will present the award to DeLong during the 109th General Meeting of the ASM, which will take place in Philadelphia, Pa., from May 17-21.
DeLong's work on anaerobic methane oxidizing bacteria suggests that individual groups of microbes are metabolically versatile, but in teams they can do almost anything that is thermodynamically possible. This insight underscores the importance of studying microbial communities as a whole, rather than focusing on individual species.
DeLong's contributions to microbiology, particularly in marine microbiology and the study of anaerobic methane-oxidizing bacteria, have been instrumental in shaping our understanding of the microbial world and its role in the biosphere. His work continues to inspire and influence a new generation of microbiologists.
- Edward DeLong's groundbreaking research, focusing on anaerobic methane-oxidizing bacteria and archaea, offers valuable insights into the relationship between these microorganisms and medical-conditions related to health-and-wellness, such as the reduction of methane emissions that could potentially influence climate change.
- Expanding our knowledge of marine microbial ecology, Dean's work plays a vital role in the science field, offering an understanding of the diverse microbes and their roles, which could lead to new medical treatments or preventative measures for various medical-conditions.
