The National Science Foundation (NSF) has selected UNLV biology professor Brian Hedlund as the recipient of a 2006 Early Career Development Award, the most prestigious honor given to young faculty by the foundation.
The award recognizes and supports the early career development activities of teacher-scholars who are considered most likely to become academic leaders of the 21st century.
The five-year, $841,632 grant was awarded to Hedlund for his research on how microorganisms - some of which represent phyla and classes that are new to science - thrive in hot springs located in the Great Basin of Nevada.
"This research will allow us to better understand the foundations of life in Nevada's geothermal habitats and will expand our knowledge about the biological diversity of life on earth," said Hedlund. "I'm thrilled that my research is valued by the nation's scientific community in such an important way."
According to the NSF, Hedlund's proposal, "Linking Novel Thermophiles with Ecosystem Function: A Study of a Model Spring in Nevada," was selected, in part, on the merit of its creative and effective research. The central focus of Hedlund's study is to examine the unique metabolic processes within geothermal environments that provide energy for the microorganisms that live there.
Since photosynthesis doesn't occur above 163 degrees Fahrenheit, organisms that thrive in geothermal waters must gain energy through chemolithoautotrophy, a process that generates energy from inorganic chemical sources instead of light. He hopes to then cultivate those organisms in the laboratory so they can be studied in greater detail.
"Dr. Hedlund's work will not only improve our understanding of the unique ecosystems and species that may represent the environment first encountered by life on our planet, but it may also aid in the identification of bio-products that will enhance the quality of life for all of us, " said Ron Yasbin, Dean of UNLV's College of Sciences. "Furthermore, this award recognizes Brian's research and teaching skills, as well as his impressive development as a leader in his field."
The NSF also recognized Hedlund's integration of educational plans into the research project, a component designed to help generate increased interest in the scientific process and inspire future generations of students to pursue career in the sciences.
Each year, Hedlund will conduct a one-week field course in Northern Nevada, during which he will help foster relationships between members of the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe, UNLV students, and the scientific community through collaborative study of the biological, cultural and sociopolitical importance of the Great Basin's geothermal resources.
Hedlund, who has been a faculty member in UNLV's department of biological sciences since 2003, holds a doctorate degree in microbiology from the University of Washington and a bachelor's degree in biology from the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana.
