The PIs are requesting funding to acquire a modern low-vacuum scanning electron microscope equipped with an energy dispersive x-ray spectrometer. The proposed instrumentation would be used for the microanalysis of biological specimens, sediments, rocks, hard skeletal parts, and other materials. Research efforts supported by the proposed instrumentation would include: examining the relationships between geology and microbial activity in sub-seafloor extreme environments; examining dynamics of particle transport and carbon cycling; examining age, growth, and life histories of fishes, corals, and other marine organisms; analyzing microbial diversity; and examining hydrothermal vent ecosystems.
Broader Impacts: The proposed instrumentation will improve the research capability at the institution, which consists of a consortium of seven California State University campuses (San Jose, East Bay, Monterey Bay, Fresno, Stanislaus, Sacramento, and San Francisco). The PIs also state that the proposed instrumentation will enhance student mentoring activities (undergraduate and high school) at these affiliated institutions, which include minority-serving institutions. Additionally, the PIs state that the proposed instrumentation will be incorporated into student independent research products.
