Isotope biogeochemistry on coral reefs

Stable isotopes are a powerful tool for understanding energy flow through ecosystems. On coral reefs we use this technique to trace reef-derived vs. oceanic sources of carbon and nitrogen into the food web. This project will focus on the collection and analysis of samples to characterize the temporal and spatial gradients in stable isotope baselines around the reefs of KAUST. The project will place particular emphasis with on hands on experience with isotope ratio spectrometry and analytical skill development.

You will train in standard techniques for isotope ratio mass spectrometry and aid in the collection, preparation, and analysis of a variety of biological samples. Deliverables will include the literature reviews, generation, validation, and organization of a growing database of stable isotope data for the Red Sea.