Doug Bartlett is a professor at Scripps Institution of Oceanography. He received his Ph.D. at the University of Illinois in Molecular Biology.
Q: What did you learn or find on the mission?
A: My principle interest in going on the cruise was to obtain methane-rich sediment samples for use in studying the identities and activities of the microbes who use this molecule as a nutrient. Methane is the most abundant hydrocarbon fuel source on the planet, most of which is located in moderately deep-sea sediments. But, in addition to the interest of oil companies in methane as a energy source, microbes already exist on this planet which have evolved the ability to use it as a energy source (and who knows, maybe on other planets where methane is abundant as well).
I am happy to report that we successfully transported our precious cargo back to the lab where graduate student Christian Solem has been very successsful at using it as a source of microbes in anaerobic methane oxidation bioreactor experiments for more than half a year now. We have also enumerated and identified the types of microbes present in many of the sediments we obtained.
Q: What will you seek to find on future expeditions?
A: Our future plans involve trying to learn more about what makes these microbes tick. Most of the metabolic diversity on Earth is due to microbes and we have much to learn about the geochemical transformations they catalyze. What special genes and biochemical activities do microbes have which oxidize methane in marine sediments? No one knows. Are these microbes a part of some food web involving higher organisms? No one knows.
Our future work will not involve so much additional research expeditions to exotic environments as it will involve "voyages of discovery" using our existing samples in further laboratory studies.
Q: What do you find most rewarding and also most difficult in your line of work?
A: I enjoy the diversity of work; teaching in the classroom and laboratory, becoming engaged in a variety of types of projects in marine microbiology, learning about new scientific developments and interacting with colleagues and students. I find it unfortunate that I have to spend so much of my time in front of the computer, seeking support from one government agency or another for the funds needed to support the people and supplies needed to perform scientific research.
Q: What advice would you give to someone embarking on a career in science?
A: First, read about the lives and pursuits of those scientists who have earned great acclaim, such as those who have been recipients of nobel prizes or Kyoto awards. Second, become involved in groups that provide outlets for your curiosity about the natural world and science. Join the scouts, go off to summer camp, become involved in science fairs, etc.
