Team

Dr. Colleen M. Cavanaugh’s research interests focus on microbial symbiosis and evolution with emphasis on characterization of metabolic and genetic capabilities of symbionts, evolutionary relationships with free-living bacteria, and host-symbiont coevolution. Her research has expanded from deep-sea hydrothermal vent symbioses to include human and wild animal microbiomes and their roles in health and disease. She has participated in research cruises worldwide with deep-sea dives in the submersible Alvin.