Carini Microbial Systems Ecology Lab

Extreme Environments, Extraordinary Microbes

Welcome to the Carini Lab at the University of Arizona, where we explore the world of microbiology, including systems biology, ecology, and evolution. Our lab uses integrative tools to understand how microorganisms survive in extreme environments, with a focus on the systems biology and ecological dynamics of microbes in marine and terrestrial settings.

From Isolation to Integration

We integrate high-throughput cultivation of environmental microbes with multi-level analyses to understand microbial life from genes to ecosystems. Our approach begins by isolating microbes from their natural habitats, investigating their genomic features to predict physiological capabilities, comparing genomic differences between related strains to reveal ecological adaptations, and ultimately connecting laboratory findings to real-world ecosystem dynamics to ensure our discoveries have meaningful environmental relevance. Current projects investigate RNA stability in desiccated soil bacteria, protein-degrading microbes in ocean sediments, California's belowground microbial biodiversity, and how gut microbes transform arsenic.

Translating Discovery into Solutions

Our research moves beyond the laboratory to address humanity's most pressing challenges. From developing drought-resistant agricultural practices through soil microbe research to creating new bioremediation strategies for environmental cleanup, we bridge the gap between microbial discovery and practical application. Our work on protein-degrading ocean microbes and pollutant-removing microbial communities is an investment in next-generation environmental restoration technologies, while our discoveries about gut microbes transforming arsenic and predicting microbial growth from amino acid composition are opening new pathways for treating environmental toxin exposure and accelerating drug discovery. Our high-throughput cultivation of previously "uncultivated" microbes is unlocking new sources of sustainable biomaterials and biochemical processes for green manufacturing. Every microbe we isolate, every genome we sequence, and every ecosystem dynamic we uncover is a step toward solutions that make Earth more habitable for future generations.

Scientific Impact and Media Presence.

Our research has been recognized through prestigious awards, including an NSF CAREER Award and the Simons Early Career Investigator in Marine Microbial Ecology and Evolution Award. Our work on soil microbes has been featured in the Arizona Republic and on the Matters Microbial podcast. Discover former student Brenna’s journey of transformation in "Making of a Metalhead Scientist" below, where her passion for heavy metal music converges with scientific curiosity to forge an inspiring career path.

Training the Next Generation

At the Carini Lab, we pride ourselves on training students from all backgrounds and experiences to be data-driven microbiologists, with an eye toward discovery. We celebrate calmness in the implementation of science, and our mentee training is intentional and science-backed.

The UnCultured Newsletter

Follow our "UnCultured" newsletter at uncultured.carinilab.com where we share insights on science, academia, and self-improvement. From challenging the status quo of academic traditions like recommendation letters, to exploring work-life boundaries in research, to behind-the-scenes looks at our latest publications, UnCultured offers an authentic window into scientific life and our "loosely held strong convictions" about building a more balanced and effective research community.

We acknowledge our presence and research on Tohono O'odham, Yaqui, Yaqona, and Alsea lands.