Core Research Themes

1. Microbial-Induced Mineral Precipitation (MIMP) and Green Materials Innovation

A central research focus of the laboratory is Microbial-Induced Mineral Precipitation (MIMP), a bio-based pathway in which heterotrophic microorganisms and photosynthetic microalgae regulate mineral nucleation, crystal growth, and interfacial reactivity. Through extracellular polymeric substances, metabolic by-products, and redox processes, microbial systems enable:

• Organic waste stabilization
• Heavy metal immobilization
• Carbon dioxide sequestration
• Environmentally compatible nanomaterial synthesis

This green mineralization framework provides a sustainable alternative to conventional physical and chemical material fabrication.

2. Arsenic and Critical Element Biogeochemistry

We conduct systematic investigations into the cycling, mobility, and risk regulation of arsenic and other environmentally critical elements in aquatic and soil environments. Through microbially induced synthesis of manganese carbonate (MnCO₃) and manganese dioxide (MnO₂), our research controls arsenic adsorption, immobilization, and redox transformation.

These mechanism-driven remediation strategies have resulted in patented technologies and successful industry collaborations, demonstrating the societal relevance and practical impact of biogeochemistry-based solutions.

3. Environmental Nanotechnology and Translational Biogeochemistry

Our laboratory pioneers bio-inspired environmental nanomaterials derived from microbe–algae–mineral interactions. Applications include:

• Petroleum spill remediation through microbial precipitation and hydrophobic calcium carbonate modification
• Functional surface coatings for oil–water separation
• Sustainable construction materials with enhanced environmental compatibility
• Engineered biochar systems, including NaOH-modified lotus seed pericarp biochar for fluoride and heavy-metal removal

These studies highlight how biological processes can be translated into high-performance, environmentally responsible materials.

4. Sustainable Agriculture and Soil Biogeochemistry

Extending biogeochemical principles to agroecosystems, our research integrates earthworm–microbe interactions and vermicomposting systems to enhance:

• Nutrient cycling efficiency
• Soil structure stability
• Trace metal stabilization
• Plant productivity

This work supports circular bio-resource utilization and climate-resilient agriculture, linking soil biogeochemistry with sustainable food systems and regenerative farming practices.

5. Microplastics as Emerging Biogeochemical Microhabitats

In response to the global microplastic crisis, our laboratory investigates microplastics as dynamic “plastisphere” microenvironments that influence:

• Metal adsorption and contaminant transport
• Microbial community assembly
• Carbon and nitrogen cycling
• Coupled physicochemical–biological transformations

This research provides mechanistic insights into microplastic–metal–microbe interactions and informs science-based mitigation strategies in coastal and marine systems.

6. Biodiversity Monitoring and Environmental DNA

To address accelerating biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation, we integrate environmental DNA (eDNA) and DNA barcoding technologies with biogeochemical assessments. This interdisciplinary approach links species detection and ecological monitoring with elemental cycling and environmental function, strengthening ecosystem-based management strategies.

7. Blue Carbon, Black Carbon, and Coastal Earth System Processes

Our most recent work focuses on carbon sequestration in mangrove ecosystems across river–estuary–coastal continuum systems. Using stable isotope analyses and radiometric dating techniques, we quantify long-term carbon burial efficiency and elucidate the stabilizing role of black carbon in sediment systems.

This Earth-system-scale research contributes scientific evidence supporting global climate mitigation strategies and the 2050 net-zero carbon emission target.

Methodological Strengths

The laboratory integrates advanced analytical and field-based techniques, including:

• Stable isotope geochemistry
• Radiometric dating
• Mineralogical and surface characterization (XRD, SEM, FTIR)
• Microbial cultivation and molecular tools
• Biochar engineering and nanomaterial synthesis
• Field-based watershed and coastal monitoring

By combining laboratory experimentation with ecosystem-scale investigation, we connect nano-scale mineral processes to global biogeochemical cycles.

Translational Impact and Societal Contribution

Our research has generated patents, technology transfer achievements, and industry partnerships in environmental remediation and sustainable materials. Beyond technological innovation, the laboratory contributes to:

• Pollution risk mitigation
• Climate adaptation and carbon management
• Sustainable agriculture development
• Coastal ecosystem resilience
• Biodiversity conservation

Through interdisciplinary collaboration and international engagement, we strive to advance environmental innovation that integrates science, engineering, and sustainability.

Our Commitment

We are committed to educating the next generation of scientists and engineers in interdisciplinary biogeochemistry, fostering global collaboration, and transforming fundamental microbial processes into scalable solutions for a sustainable future.