We are using metagenomics to study bioreactors that process dissolved thiocyanate, a toxic waste product of gold mining. Specifically, the microbial community in these bioreactors decontaminates mining wastewater so that it can be recycled back into the mining process, and we are interested in the metabolic activities of community members.

Our work is being performed in collaboration with the Harrison Lab (Department of Chemical Engineering) at the University of Cape Town, South Africa, where pilot-scale bioreactors are operated.