FURI | Fall 2024

Assessing the Dynamics of Microbial Sulfate and Perchlorate Reduction in Environments Relevant to Mars

This project researches bioweathering strategies for the naturally occurring perchlorate and sulfate concentrations in Martian regolith, the material covering the surface of Mars. The goal of this experiment is to quantify and understand how sulfate concentrations and microbial reduction of sulfate affect microbial perchlorate reduction. By investigating the interactions between sulfate reduction and perchlorate reduction processes, this study generates crucial knowledge that informs how Martian regolith can be biotransformed for downstream applications, including usage in plant growth to support a human crew on a mission to Mars.