It focuses on the study of microbial communities in the context of geochemical processes and the evolution of Earth's surface environments as well as the impact the environment has in human health. This field encompasses both aquatic and terrestrial environments, and includes the study of microbial communities in a wide range of environments, including soil, water, and air.
Studying the diversity and function of microbial communities in different environments: Metagenomics has been used to study the diversity and function of microbial communities in a variety of environments, including soil, water, and air. For example, researchers have used metagenomics to study the microbial communities in soil and how they contribute to nutrient cycling and soil health.
Identifying novel microorganisms and their roles in the environment: Metagenomics can be used to identify novel microorganisms that have not yet been isolated or characterized in the laboratory. This can help researchers understand the roles these microorganisms play in the environment and how they interact with other organisms.
Understanding the impacts of human activities on microbial communities: Metagenomics can be used to study how human activities, such as pollution and land use changes, impact microbial communities in the environment. This can help researchers understand the potential consequences of these activities and develop strategies for mitigating their impacts.
Developing bioremediation strategies: Metagenomics can be used to study the microbial communities involved in bioremediation, which is the use of microorganisms to break down or remove contaminants from the environment. By understanding the composition and function of these microbial communities, researchers can develop more effective and efficient bioremediation strategies.
Antimicrobial resistance: linking which antibiotic resistance genes is linked to pathogenic bacteria in environmental samples that can transfer and spread through anthropogenic (wastewater and/or drinking water treatment plant) as well as distribution systems and canalization.