Tiny Cells, Global Impact: A Journey of Discovery with a Microbe from the Sea

Sallie W. Chisholm, Institute Professor, Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Phytoplankton–microscopic photosynthetic cells–form the base of ocean food webs. They are responsible for half the photosynthesis on Earth and thus play a central role in our planet’s metabolism. Discovered only three decades ago, Prochlorococcus is the smallest and most abundant member of the phytoplankton, manufacturing billions of tons of living biomass each year. Sallie Chisholm will discuss how this tiny microbe has helped scientists to understand the forces that shape ecosystems and to appreciate their genetic diversity.

The Evolution Matters Lecture Series is supported by a generous gift from Drs. Herman and Joan Suit.