Phycology and Microbial Ecology Lab

 Phycology and Microbial Ecology Lab

Click here: Phycology and Microbial Ecology Lab Tour

                                                

Step into the realm of our Algae and Microbial Ecology Laboratory, at SRI GURU GRANTH SAHIB WORLD UNIVERSITY, FATEHGARH SAHIB, PUNJAB, where the vibrant world of microscopic organisms and the delicate balance of ecological systems come to life under the lens of scientific inquiry. Nestled within these walls is a hub of exploration, where the beauty and complexity of algae and microbial communities are meticulously studied and understood.

In our laboratory, we embark on a voyage to unlock the secrets held within the intricate relationships between algae and microbial life. Through rigorous experimentation and innovative research, we delve into the dynamic interactions that shape aquatic ecosystems, from freshwater ponds to the vast depths of the ocean.

Led by a team of passionate researchers and equipped with cutting-edge technology, we dive deep into the microscopic realm, uncovering the pivotal roles that algae and microbes play in nutrient cycling, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity maintenance. With every sample analyzed and every data point collected, we gain insights into the fundamental processes that sustain life on our planet.

Our research extends beyond the confines of the laboratory, as we collaborate with scientists, policymakers, and conservationists to address pressing environmental challenges. From mitigating harmful algal blooms to harnessing the potential of microalgae for sustainable biofuel production, our work transcends disciplinary boundaries to make a tangible impact on society and the natural world.

Welcome to our laboratory, where the wonders of algae and microbial ecology await discovery. Join us on a journey of exploration and innovation, where science meets stewardship in the pursuit of a more sustainable and harmonious relationship with our planet. Together, let us unlock the mysteries of the microscopic world and chart a course towards a brighter future for all.

Aims

Understanding Ecosystem Dynamics: Investigate the roles of algae and microbial communities in shaping the structure and function of aquatic ecosystems, including nutrient cycling, primary productivity, and resilience to environmental stressors.

Exploring Microbial Interactions: Unravel the intricate interactions between algae and microbial species, including symbiotic relationships, competition, predation, and the formation of biofilms, to elucidate their collective impact on ecosystem health.

Assessing Environmental Health: Develop novel methods for monitoring water quality and assessing the ecological health of aquatic environments based on the composition and dynamics of algal and microbial communities.

Mitigating Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs): Investigate the factors contributing to the formation and persistence of harmful algal blooms, and develop strategies for predicting, preventing, and mitigating their negative impacts on water quality, ecosystem health, and human well-being.

Exploring Biotechnological Applications: Explore the potential of algae and microbial communities for biotechnological applications, including biofuel production, wastewater treatment, bioremediation, and the synthesis of valuable compounds for pharmaceutical, agricultural, and industrial purposes.

Advancing Sustainable Aquaculture: Investigate the role of algae and microbial communities in aquaculture systems, including their contributions to nutrient cycling, water quality management, and the health and productivity of cultivated organisms.

Understanding Climate Change Impacts: Investigate how climate change affects the distribution, abundance, and interactions of algae and microbial communities in aquatic ecosystems, and assess their role in mediating ecosystem responses to global environmental changes.

Fostering Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Promote collaboration between researchers from diverse disciplines, including biology, ecology, microbiology, biotechnology, environmental science, and engineering, to address complex scientific questions and develop innovative solutions to environmental challenges.

Objectives

Characterize Algal Diversity: Identify and classify algal species present in various aquatic environments using molecular techniques, microscopy, and morphological characterization.

Investigate Microbial Community Structure: Analyze the composition and diversity of microbial communities associated with algae, including bacteria, archaea, fungi, and protists, to understand their roles in ecosystem functioning.

Quantify Nutrient Dynamics: Measure nutrient concentrations (e.g., nitrogen, phosphorus, carbon) and fluxes in aquatic ecosystems to elucidate the role of algae and microbial communities in nutrient cycling and ecosystem productivity.

Study Algal Growth Dynamics: Investigate the factors influencing algal growth, including light availability, temperature, nutrient availability, and interspecific interactions, to understand the drivers of algal blooms and ecosystem shifts.

Assess Microbial Activity: Quantify microbial activity and metabolic processes (e.g., respiration, photosynthesis, nitrogen fixation) in aquatic environments to assess their contributions to biogeochemical cycling and ecosystem functioning.

Develop Molecular Tools: Develop molecular tools (e.g., DNA barcoding, metagenomics) to study algal and microbial communities, assess their responses to environmental changes, and monitor their abundance and diversity over time.

Evaluate Biotechnological Potential: Evaluate the biotechnological potential of algae and microbial communities for applications such as biofuel production, nanoparticles synthesis, wastewater treatment, bioremediation, and the synthesis of value-added products.

Promote Outreach and Education: Engage with the public, policymakers, and stakeholders through outreach activities, educational programs, and dissemination of research findings to raise awareness about the importance of algae and microbial ecology for environmental sustainability and human well-being.

 

Equipments Available

Biological Oxygen Demand (Automatic) procured from Metrex Scientific Instruments (P) LTD, New Delhi, India.
Biological Oxygen Demand (Automatic) procured from Metrex Scientific Instruments (P) LTD, New Delhi, India.
Biological Oxygen Demand procured from HL Scientific industries , Ambala, Haryana, India.
Seed Germinator procured from Narang Scientific Works PVT. LTD, New Delhi, India.
Centrifuge Remi R-8C procured from Remi Electrotechnik LTD, Vasai, India.
Vortex Remi CM-101
Air Laminar Flow
Autoclave
Hot plate
Magnetic stirrer Remi-2MLH
Weighing Balance (Shimadzu)
Oven