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National Science Foundation Award #0453680

Application of a New Method for Isotopic Analysis of Diatom Microfossil-bound Nitrogen

 
Investigator(s): Daniel Sigman (PI)
Sponsor: Princeton University, NJ 08544 6092583090
Start Date/Expiration Date 2005-05-01 to 2008-04-30 (amended 2005-04-26)
Awarded Amount to Date: $350,000
Abstract: The Southern Ocean may play a central role in causing ice ages and general global climate change. This work will reveal key characteristics of the glacial ocean, and may explain the cause of glacial/interglacial cycles by measuring the abundances of certain isotopes of nitrogen found in fossil diatoms from Antarctic marine sediments. Diatom-bound N is a potentially important recorder of nutrient utilization. The Southern Ocean's nutrient status, productivity and circulation may be central to setting global atmospheric CO2 contents and other aspects of climate. Previous attempts to make these measurements have yielded ambiguous results. This project includes both technique development and analyses, including measurements on diatoms from both sediment traps and culture experiments. With regard to broader impacts, this grant is focused around the education and academic development of a graduate student, by coupling their research with mentorship of an undergraduate researcher
NSF Org: ANT - Antarctic Sciences Section
Award Number: 0453680
Award Instrument: Standard Grant
Program Manager: Thomas P. Wagner
ANT Antarctic Sciences Section
OPP Office of Polar Programs
NSF Program(s): ANTARCTIC GEOLOGY & GEOPHYSICS
Field Application(s): Polar Programs-Related
Program Reference Code(s): UNASSIGNED, 0000
Program Element Code(s): 5112