Biogeochemistry
Jenny Cappuccio
Dr. Cappuccio is interested in how membrane and surface proteins interface on the nanoscale. The research encompasses the biochemical and biotechnology aspects of these two classes of proteins, focusing on understanding their interactions with lipids and other proteins. Student use nanotechnology tools to enable studies of GPCRs such as the CB2 receptor and other membrane proteins in lipid nanodiscs. New areas of research include investigations of novel cellulases in partership with CSUPERB and the Joint Genome Institute and applications of membrane proteins in stem cell biology.
Matthew Hurst
My research interests lie in two areas: (1) the development of analytical methods for the determination of trace metals in aquatic systems, and (2) the study of trace metal and nutrient cycling in natural systems with a particular interest in determining the toxicity and/or bioavailability of elemental species. Currently, the study sites used in my undergraduate research program include Humboldt Bay, Arcata Marsh, Smith River watershed, and California coastal waters.
Claire P. Till
My research focuses on measuring trace concentrations of metals in the marine environment and investigating how these trace metals impact or provide insights into biological, chemical and physical systems. Many trace metals are key micronutrients for phytoplankton; others (at sufficient concentration) are toxic; others are “tracers” that allow us to follow chemical and physical processes in the ocean.
