My research interests encompass two interconnected subjects: the early coevolution of Earth and life and astrobiology. I want to know how microbial life arose, diversified, and paved the way for multicellular life on Earth. I also want to know if life has ever emerged elsewhere in our universe. I pursue this knowledge by studying fossils of Earth’s earliest life, like the 2.5 billion year old microbialites below, and applying what I learn to the search for evidence of ancient life on Mars.
I am also fascinated by the challenges that astrobiology faces as an emerging scientific discipline. I am especially interested in understanding how astrobiologists can best seek extraterrestrial life without a clear definition of the “life” we seek.
Microbial Ecosystems Made these Rocks
Welcome to the world of microbialites!
The above right image is a carbonate microbialite in the 2.5 billion year old Gamohaan formation on the Kaapvaal craton, South Africa. The ridges on its surface form as the carbonate weathers more rapidly than more resistant, partially silicified features composed of fossilized organic matter.
The image to the right is a 3D projection of the fossilized organic structures that were preserved within the carbonate microbialite in the picture directly above it. I study the morphology of these structures so that I can better understand how the microorganisms that formed them may have competed and/or cooperated for resources.
Andrea Corpolongo 