Modelling the interkingdom dynamics between microbial communities in response to climate change

Topsoil microbial communities are key components of biogeochemical cycles and food production. This work looks to investigate the effect of elevated temperature on the dynamics of the soil microbial community from a Scottish Temperate Rainforest, and will use bioinformatics and environmental data to understand the effect of climate change on the network of microbial interactions. The project will also enhance public awareness through the creation of an interactive virtual map for schools and public display.

Microbes play an essential role in the maintenance of the environment but their key functions are threatened by climate change. To understand how climate change might effect the microbial soil community of one of the few Scottish Temperate Rainforests, this project will combine both biological and environmental analysis to investigate how the microbial community changes in response to higher temperatures. From our results we will also create an interactive virtual map to enhance public awareness of the impact of climate changes on microbes.