Dr Nicole Bale

We investigate the diversity of membrane lipids produced by microorganisms and what these molecules reveal about microbial evolution, ecology, and environmental adaptation. Using state-of-the-art liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry, we identify and characterise novel membrane lipids from bacteria and archaea. We explore how microorganisms modify their membranes in response to changing environmental conditions, providing new insights into life in marine and extreme environments. These distinctive lipids also serve as biomarkers, enabling us to trace microbial groups in modern and ancient environments, reconstruct past ocean conditions, and improve our understanding of biogeochemical cycles and microbial evolution.