Over the past 30 years, one of the most significant advancements in Earth and Life Sciences has been the discovery of the subseafloor and oceanic crust biosphere (collectively termed the "deep biosphere"). These high-pressure, deep-Earth environments host primarily microorganism, representing the known limits of life. The biomass of deep life rivals that of the Earth's surface, yet it remains the least explored biological resource. The extreme high-pressure conditions of the deep sea have driven unique evolutionary adaptation, resulting in extraordinary microbial diversity and functionally distinct genes/metabolites. These discoveries hold immense scientific value and serve as a treasure trove for novel strains, genes, materials, compounds, functions, and mechanisms.
This summer, IC-DLI has partnered with senior experts in the research field of deep biosphere and provide this summer school program. The program is delivered through a combination of cutting-edge lectures and practical exercises, aiming to enhance the participant’ comprehensive understanding of deep biosphere processes and resources exploration. The program includes 20+ lectures covering topics such as microorganism metabolism, evolution, adaptation in deep biosphere, elemental recycle, bacterial-mineral interaction, IODP and ICDP drilling program, industrial development of biological resource in deep biosphere and so on. It also integrates 10+ lab-based practical courses tailored for participants, such as genetic experiments, geochemical analysis and cultured based techniques. We hope this program will enhance knowledge and technology sharing in deep biosphere, promote international communication between experts and young researchers, and produce cooperation among participants.
