Angel Rodriguez

PhD Student

Biological Sciences


Email: arodr1556@fiu.edu

Advisor: Dr. Heather Bracken-Grissom

My research involves using biogeochemical and genetic techniques to understand the origins of bacterial life at hydrothermal vents. Using environmental DNA and sediment/water analysis techniques to understand chemoautotrophic bacteria’s ability to serve as primary producers exclusively using nutrients emitted from hydrothermal vents. Similarly, I also conduct environmental DNA analyses in Biscayne Bay to understand population interactions of various vertebrates and invertebrates.