My research focuses on marine viral ecology, virus-host interactions and the role of viruses on prokaryotic nutrient cycling, diversity and evolution. My work includes experimental studies in the lab with model systems of specific viruses and hosts under controlled conditions, testing specific hypotheses on e.g. virus–driven diversification, evolution and cycling of nutrients. This type of studies is combined with field studies of the activity, distribution and role of viruses and prokaryotes for carbon and nutrient cycling in environmental settings, with particular emphasis on benthic environments (shallow to deep hadal trenches). Moreover, part of my activities is directed towards exploring the potential of using viruses in disease control in aquaculture, including isolation and characterization of specific viruses, development and impact of phage-resistance as well application of phages in aquaculture settings.
