SNOWGIANTS- Exploring the Giant Viruses of Snow and Ice Algal Blooms and their Biotechnological Potential

ongoing

Climate change is transforming polar and alpine ecosystems, significantly affecting snow and ice surfaces through microbial activities like algal blooms. Snow algal blooms not only alter surface reflectivity but also play a crucial role in nutrient cycling and microbial community dynamics. However, the role of viruses, particularly giant viruses, in these ecosystems remains poorly understood. This project aims to bridge this knowledge gap by investigating the diversity, ecology, and metabolic potential of giant viruses associated with snow algal blooms in Arctic environments. The primary objectives of this project are to (1) uncover novel giant virus genomes through high-throughput metagenomic and metatranscriptomic analyses, (2) characterize virus-host interactions and their role in biogeochemical processes, and (3) identify cold-adapted viral enzymes with potential biotechnological applications. This will be achieved through a combination of field sampling, next-generation sequencing, advanced bioinformatics pipelines, and laboratory-based enzyme characterization techniques. The expected outcomes include the discovery of at least 50 novel giant virus genomes and the characterization of 10 novel enzymes with industrial potential. These findings will advance our understanding of viral roles in polar microbial ecosystems and unlock new possibilities for biotechnological innovations. This Marie Skłodowska-Curie fellowship at Nord University will be instrumental in my development as an independent researcher in environmental virology and biotechnology. It will enhance my skills in cryosphere microbiology, advanced genomics, and enzyme characterization, while fostering my abilities in project management, interdisciplinary collaboration, and science communication. The project's unique blend of basic and applied research will position me at the forefront of an emerging field with significant scientific and societal implications.