Diatoms are microscopic, single celled plants that are responsible for much of the biological productivity in the ocean.Their absolute requirement for silica makes them unique among the phytoplankton and the interaction of light and silica in regulating the cell division (or growth) of these plants will be addressed in this research. Dr. Chisholm and a post doctoral researcher will collaborate with Dr. Olson from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute to examine several questions regarding the exact nature and number of block points in the diatom cell division cycle that are controlled by light and silica availability. The specific strategies for dealing with these limitations will be studied using cell cytometry in a highly integrated cell biological approach to marine biology.
