Distributive Earth System Science
International
The availability and low cost of Internet communication technology allows BMSIS researchers to function as a virtual laboratory that holds no central physical location.
Geosciences
BMSIS research scientist Sanjoy Som discusses volcanology with David Des Marais, a senior scientist at NASA Ames, while on top of the Fimmvörðuháls lava field—one of the two 2010 eruption sites of Eyjafjallajökull. (Photo credit: Rebecca Wolsey)
Biogeochemistry
BMSIS scientist Mark Claire examining active cyanobacteria living in a block of pure salt in Chile's Atacama Desert.
Distributive Earth System Science
Interdisciplinary
The scientific pursuit of big-picture questions requires an approach of constrained imagination. The increase of communication between traditional disciplines such as chemistry, physics, biology, astronomy, and geology has spawned new multidisciplinary scientific communities that include climate science, astrobiology, cognitive science, and space exploration.
Experimental Evolution
BMSIS research scientist Betül Kaçar holding a petri dish culture of experimentally evolved E.coli, carrying a 500 million year old ancient gene component. (Photo credit: Robin Gaucher)
Micropaleontology
BMSIS Research Scientist Zach Adam pilots a DA-20 Eclipse during an aerial survey of rock outcrops in Montana as part of an effort to discover some of the oldest eukaryote fossils in the world (inset) within the 1.4 billion year old Belt Supergroup.
Distributive Earth System Science
Creative
The flexibility and reduced cost of such an approach enhances the ability to form unique international research collaborations that conduct creative science and effectively communicate it with others.
Radar Astronomy
Radar images of near-Earth asteroid 2008 EV5, obtained at the Arecibo Observatory in December 2008. (Picture from M.W. Busch et al. 2011)
Distributive Earth System Science
Philosophical
By building upon the wealth of knowledge within disciplines and fostering communication across disciplines, these multidisciplinary communities are able to examine complex and profound philosophical questions using the tools of science.
History & Philosophy
BMSIS Research Scientist Jacob Haqq-Misra speaking at “The History and Philosophy of Astrobiology” conference in Ven, Sweden. (Photo credit: David Dunér)