What We Do

Mercury and sulfur, together, have captivated the curiosity of countless individuals since the Middle Ages. The early studies of mercury and sulfur mixtures by alchemists can be interpreted as early descriptions of a chemical bond. Although Hg has been studied since the origins of chemistry, critical questions, ranging from fundamental chemical interactions between mercury and sulfur compounds to the mechanisms by which methylmercury enters the brain, have remained unanswered. Inspired by the rich history of this neurotoxic global pollutant and the scientific mysteries surrounding Hg stable isotope fractionation, the overarching goal of the research is to understand the underlying chemistry of the major forms of this unusual element in the environment.

Our research methods integrate theoretical chemistry, laboratory plankton and abiotic experiments, and seagoing fieldwork. Our combined methodology enables the direct observation of physical chemistry of living reaction systems with the overarching goal of developing a mechanistic understanding of mercury mediated biogeochemical processes in natural waters and living systems.