Dr. Fathepure's Lab
Research in Babu Fathepure’ s lab focuses on aerobic and anaerobic biodegradation petroleum hydrocarbons in hypersaline environments. We use genome-based tools to characterize hydrocarbon degrading microbial communities and their metabolic capacity. We seek to isolate novel hydrocarbon degrading bacteria and archaea and study their ecology, physiology and molecular mechanisms of hydrocarbon degradation at elevated salinity. Also, our lab explores degradation of plant lignin using bacteria and fungi for enhanced saccharification and efficient biofuel production. We use genomic and proteomic approach to understand lignin-active genes and proteins (enzymes) involved in the delignification of plant biomass.
Classes Taught
- Introductory Microbiology (MICR 2124)
- Advanced Microbiology (MICR 3224)
- Environmental Microbiology (MICR 4113)
- Microbial Ecology (MICR 4124)
- Recent Advances (MICR 6120)