Jiasong Fang Research Projects

I use molecular and isotopic signatures to study current topics in biogeochemistry, environmental geochemistry, chemical oceanography, microbial ecology, and astrobiology.

Lipids are the most widely used biomarkers because they are less susceptible to environmental alterations than other membrane components (proteins, carbohydrates, etc.) and they perform essential roles in the storage and mobilization of energy in reproduction, molting, and metabolism. The myriad molecular structure of lipids biosynthesized by organisms "biomarkers or molecular fossils", make them useful in tracing the source, fate, and transport of organic matter in aquatic environments. Additionally, stable carbon isotopic compositions of individual lipid compounds provide a powerful tool for identifying lipid sources and for following carbon flow through ecosystems. Biogeochemistry is an multidisciplinary science that strives to understand the relationship between the biosphere and the geosphere.

Jiasong Fang spends summer looking for life on Mars. Full Story