Welcome to the Yurkov Lab

We study the microbial diversity in extreme environments, with particular interest given to aerobic anoxygenic phototrophs (AAP) and biological heavy metal transformations. Bacteria isolated from locations such as mine drainage sites, hyper-saline lakes, hot temperature springs, and hydro-thermal vents have evolved unique characteristics allowing them to thrive under harsh conditions. Investigation into the properties of these microorganisms in nature and laboratory settings is the major focus of our lab.