Microbial Isoprene Cycling Response in the Arctic

Isoprene is a volatile organic compound (VOC) that accounts for more than a third of the total VOC emissions from ecosystems into the atmosphere. This VOC, primarily released by plants, is emitted at a rate of ~550 Tg/y and can significantly influence atmospheric chemistry and climate. Despite some knowledge of isoprene degradation in temperate regions, its role in Arctic ecosystems and the impact of global changes such as rising temperatures and drought remain poorly understood. The Microbial Isoprene Cycling Response in the Arctic (-Arctic) project, supervised by Professor Riikka Rinnan at the new Center of Excellence, Center for Volatile Interactions (VOLT) at the Department of Biology in the University of Copenhagen, aims to bridge these knowledge gaps. My objectives include isolating and characterizing active isoprene-degrading bacteria from Arctic plant phytobiomes, quantifying isoprene dynamics in Arctic mesocosms, and understanding the influence of elevated temperatures and drought on isoprene cycling rates. This research will leverage my expertise in targeted cultivation-dependent and independent methods, including Stable Isotope Probing (SIP) for DNA sequencing and metagenomics to provide more accurate insights into isoprene degradation. The outcomes of this study are critical for improving our understanding of Arctic isoprene cycling, which is becoming increasingly relevant due to climate change-induced temperature rises and their potential impact on atmospheric VOCs.