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Denise M. Akob, Ph.D.

Denise Akob is a Research Microbiologist for the USGS Geology, Energy & Minerals (GEM) Science Center in Reston, VA.

Dr. Denise M. Akob is a microbial ecologist and biogeochemist whose research aims to understand interactions between microbes and their environment and address effects of anthropogenic contaminants on environmental health and water quality. Her research focuses primarily on understanding microbial impacts on Cold War Biogeochemistry (uranium and chlorinated solvent contamination); energy production (either by mitigating degradation of contaminants (from hydraulic fracturing or oil spills) or by enhancing natural gas production); and carbon cycling. Dr. Akob joined the U.S. Geological Survey in 2012 as a research scientist in the Water Mission Area, and move to the Geology, Energy, and Minerals Science Center in 2020. For more information, please visit the Reston Microbiology Lab website.

Professional Experience

  • Research Microbiologist, U.S. Geological Survey, Geology, Energy, & Minerals Science Center, Reston Microbiology Laboratory, 2020-current

  • Affiliated Professor, Department of Biology at George Mason University, 2017-current

  • Affiliated Professor, Department of Geology, Appalachian State University, 2017-current

  • Affiliated Professor, Department of Geography and Planning, Appalachian State University, 2016-current

  • Affiliated Professor, Environmental Science and Policy Department at George Mason University, 2013-current

  • Research Microbiologist, U.S. Geological Survey, Water Mission Area, Reston Microbiology Laboratory, 2012-2020

  • Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Friedrich-Schiller University Jena, 2010-2012

  • Marie Curie Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Friedrich-Schiller University Jena, 2008-2010

Education and Certifications

  • Ph.D. 2008, Florida State University, Department of Oceanography, Advisor: Dr. Joel E. Kostka

  • B.A. 2002, St. Mary’s College of Maryland, Major: Biology

Affiliations and Memberships*

  • Chair, 2025 Applied and Environmental Microbiology Gordon Research Conference

  • Chair, American Society for Microbiology’s Council on Microbial Sciences (COMS), 2023-2024

  • Vice Chair, American Society for Microbiology’s Council on Microbial Sciences (COMS), 2022-2023

  • Vice Chair, 2023 Applied and Environmental Microbiology Gordon Research Conference

  • Editorial Board Member, FEMS Microbiology Ecology, 2016-present

  • Editorial Board Member, Applied and Environmental Microbiology, January 1, 2018-present

  • Editorial Board Member, ISME Communications, 2020-present

  • Associate Editor, Biogeosciences, 2016-2023

  • Councilor, Washington, D.C. Branch of the American Society for Microbiology, 2021-2022

  • President, Washington, D.C. Branch of the American Society for Microbiology, 2019-2021

  • President-Elect, Washington, D.C. Branch of the American Society for Microbiology, 2017-2019

  • USGS Community for Data Integration’s Bioinformatics Community of Practice, co-organizer, 2017-present

  • USGS Eastern Water Science Series, co-organizer, 2017-present

  • Applied and Environmental Microbiology Gordon Research Seminar Mentor, July 15-16, 2017

  • USGS NRP-EB Weekly Science Series, co-organizer (2013-2017)

  • Geobiology Theme Chair, Goldschmidt 2015 25th Anniversary Meeting

  • Co-Chair for Session T50. Microbial Hydrocarbon Formation and Biodegradation: Organisms, Pathways, Environmental Limitations, and Isotope Signatures, 2015 Geological Society of America Annual Meeting

Honors and Awards

  • USGS Early Career Leadership Award, 2017

Science and Products

Two whooping cranes walking through a marsh

Increasing Efficiency During the Life Cycle of Energy Development: Key Strategies for Improving the Utilization of Our Nation's Energy Resources

Energy development is critical to American energy independence and provides economic benefits to local communities. Scientific information is needed to aid in the sustainable development of energy resources. Sustainable energy development can include strategies for protecting environmental health and ecological services that benefit local communities. The USGS Environmental Health Program, Energy...
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Water Resources Mission Area, Contaminant Biology, Energy Resources Program, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology
Increasing Efficiency During the Life Cycle of Energy Development: Key Strategies for Improving the Utilization of Our Nation's Energy Resources

Increasing Efficiency During the Life Cycle of Energy Development: Key Strategies for Improving the Utilization of Our Nation's Energy Resources

Energy development is critical to American energy independence and provides economic benefits to local communities. Scientific information is needed to aid in the sustainable development of energy resources. Sustainable energy development can include strategies for protecting environmental health and ecological services that benefit local communities. The USGS Environmental Health Program, Energy...
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Prairie fading to hills with a snow-covered mountain in the background

Natural Solutions for Reducing PFOS Pollution in Our Environment

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of over 14,000 different man-made compounds that are widely used in various industrial and consumer products and linked to various health issues. Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) is a persistent synthetic chemical within the PFAS group, recognized for its widespread use and persistence in the environment. The U.S. Geological Survey is...
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology, Geology, Energy & Minerals Science Center, Maryland-Delaware-D.C. Water Science Center
Natural Solutions for Reducing PFOS Pollution in Our Environment

Natural Solutions for Reducing PFOS Pollution in Our Environment

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of over 14,000 different man-made compounds that are widely used in various industrial and consumer products and linked to various health issues. Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) is a persistent synthetic chemical within the PFAS group, recognized for its widespread use and persistence in the environment. The U.S. Geological Survey is...
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Picture of oil and gas development and associated activities along with wetlands in the Prairie Pothole Region..

Energy Resources Life Cycle Integrated Science Team

The Energy Resources Life Cycle Integrated Science Team focuses on the potential for environmental contaminant exposures that might originate from energy resource activities including extraction, production, transportation, storage, waste management, and restoration. Perceived health risks to humans and other organisms will be distinguished from actual risks, if any. If actual risks are identified...
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Ecosystems Mission Area, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology
Energy Resources Life Cycle Integrated Science Team

Energy Resources Life Cycle Integrated Science Team

The Energy Resources Life Cycle Integrated Science Team focuses on the potential for environmental contaminant exposures that might originate from energy resource activities including extraction, production, transportation, storage, waste management, and restoration. Perceived health risks to humans and other organisms will be distinguished from actual risks, if any. If actual risks are identified...
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Framework for Examining Stream Ecosystem Health in Areas of Shale Gas Development—A Multi-Parameter Watershed-Based Case Study in Pennsylvania

In a case study of 25 headwater streams in Pennsylvania, no statistically significant associations were determined between shale gas development and geochemical tracers of produced waters or measures of microbial and macroinvertebrate community composition. Although the results are specific to the region studied, the integrated biological and geochemical framework provides a tool for examining...
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Ecosystems Mission Area, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology
Framework for Examining Stream Ecosystem Health in Areas of Shale Gas Development—A Multi-Parameter Watershed-Based Case Study in Pennsylvania

Framework for Examining Stream Ecosystem Health in Areas of Shale Gas Development—A Multi-Parameter Watershed-Based Case Study in Pennsylvania

In a case study of 25 headwater streams in Pennsylvania, no statistically significant associations were determined between shale gas development and geochemical tracers of produced waters or measures of microbial and macroinvertebrate community composition. Although the results are specific to the region studied, the integrated biological and geochemical framework provides a tool for examining...
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Dr. Denise Akob giving a laboratory tour

Two Scientists Receive Early Career Excellence in Leadership Award

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) 2016 Early Career Excellence in Leadership Award was given to Dr. Denise M. Akob and Dr. Karl B. Haase. Drs. Akob and Haase have demonstrated outstanding leadership through their scientific accomplishments and service to the USGS.
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Ecosystems Mission Area, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology, Reston Microbiology Laboratory
Two Scientists Receive Early Career Excellence in Leadership Award

Two Scientists Receive Early Career Excellence in Leadership Award

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) 2016 Early Career Excellence in Leadership Award was given to Dr. Denise M. Akob and Dr. Karl B. Haase. Drs. Akob and Haase have demonstrated outstanding leadership through their scientific accomplishments and service to the USGS.
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USGS scientist collecting water samples on a wastewater disposal facility

Trace Levels of Organic Chemicals Limited to Local Reaches of a Stream near an Oil and Gas Wastewater Disposal Facility

Organic contaminants that were present in Wolf Creek near a wastewater disposal facility were not evident farther downstream where Wolf Creek enters the New River. Wolf Creek and the New River are used for drinking water and recreational purposes.
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Ecosystems Mission Area, Contaminant Biology, Energy Resources Program, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology
Trace Levels of Organic Chemicals Limited to Local Reaches of a Stream near an Oil and Gas Wastewater Disposal Facility

Trace Levels of Organic Chemicals Limited to Local Reaches of a Stream near an Oil and Gas Wastewater Disposal Facility

Organic contaminants that were present in Wolf Creek near a wastewater disposal facility were not evident farther downstream where Wolf Creek enters the New River. Wolf Creek and the New River are used for drinking water and recreational purposes.
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Filter Total Items: 17

Characterization of three common land-applied wastes: Inorganic, organic, and microbial compositions of biosolid, livestock, and drilling fluid waste, United States, 2021 and 2022 Characterization of three common land-applied wastes: Inorganic, organic, and microbial compositions of biosolid, livestock, and drilling fluid waste, United States, 2021 and 2022

It is common practice for waste byproducts generated from the treatment of municipal waste (biosolids), livestock production (manure), and oil and gas drilling operations (spent drill fluids and cuttings) to be applied to farmland as a cost-effective means of disposal. From June 2021 to January 2022, 34 samples of land-applied waste materials were collected in 14 U.S. states. Samples...
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Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in produced water from the Denver Basin Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in produced water from the Denver Basin

Per- and polyfluoroaklyl substances (PFAS) of are of interest due to their persistence and ubiquity in the environment and their potential health and environmental effects. While these compounds have been well studied in the past 10 years, little is known about PFAS in oil and gas produced waters, which are voluminous and have the potential to impact the environment through surficial...
By
Energy Resources Program, Geology, Energy & Minerals Science Center

Data to support evaluation of bioremediation of trichloroethene at Site K, Former Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant, Arden Hills, Minnesota, 2020-2022 Data to support evaluation of bioremediation of trichloroethene at Site K, Former Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant, Arden Hills, Minnesota, 2020-2022

This metadata record consists of 16 tables containing data generated from laboratory experiments of trichloroethene (TCE) biodegradation and during field characterization and performance monitoring of a groundwater bioremediation pilot test conducted at Site K, Former Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant, Arden Hills, Minnesota. The data was collected from December 2020 through December...
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Water Resources Mission Area, Geology, Energy & Minerals Science Center, Maryland-Delaware-D.C. Water Science Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Reston Biogeochemical Processes in Groundwater Laboratory

Data Collected to Evaluate Sources, Fate, and Mobility of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) at Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico Data Collected to Evaluate Sources, Fate, and Mobility of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) at Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico

Soil, soil porewater, groundwater, and playa lake sediment samples were collected between September 2021 and November 2023 at Cannon Air Force Base (CAFB) in eastern New Mexico as part of a study on the sources, fate, and transport of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Soil cores (2-foot-long) were collected in September 2021 from six sites that were potential PFAS source areas...
By
Maryland-Delaware-D.C. Water Science Center

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and volatile organic compounds measured in laboratory microcosm experiments with soil from Fort Drum, New York Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and volatile organic compounds measured in laboratory microcosm experiments with soil from Fort Drum, New York

Anaerobic microcosm experiments were conducted in April-May 2018 with PFAS-contaminated soil from a U.S. Army installation (Fort Drum, New York) and simulated groundwater. All microcosms, except for a live sediment control, were amended with perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS), perfluorooctanoate (PFOA), and 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate (6:2 FtS). Replicate treatments were prepared with and...
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Maryland-Delaware-D.C. Water Science Center

Geochemistry and microbiology data collected to study the effects of oil and gas wastewater dumping on arid lands in New Mexico Geochemistry and microbiology data collected to study the effects of oil and gas wastewater dumping on arid lands in New Mexico

The Permian Basin, straddling New Mexico and Texas, is one of the most productive oil and gas (OG) provinces in the United States. OG production yields large volumes of wastewater that contain elevated concentrations of major ions including salts (also referred to as brines), and trace organic and inorganic constituents. These OG wastewaters pose unknown environmental health risks...
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Water Resources Mission Area, Energy Resources Program, Environmental Health Program, Columbia Environmental Research Center, Geology, Energy & Minerals Science Center, Eastern Energy and Environmental Laboratory (EEEL), Reston Biogeochemical Processes in Groundwater Laboratory, Reston Microbiology Laboratory
Reston Microbiology Laboratory 2016
Reston Microbiology Laboratory 2016
Reston Microbiology Laboratory 2016
Reston Microbiology Laboratory 2016

Reston Microbiology Laboratory 2016

Reston Microbiology Laboratory 2016

The Reston Microbiology Laboratory Group headed by Denise Akob. 2016

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Water Resources
Reston Microbiology Laboratory 2016

Reston Microbiology Laboratory 2016

Reston Microbiology Laboratory 2016

The Reston Microbiology Laboratory Group headed by Denise Akob. 2016

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Water Resources
Reston Microbiology Laboratory Roll Bottle
Iron Reducing Bacteria
Iron Reducing Bacteria
Reston Microbiology Laboratory Roll Bottle

Iron Reducing Bacteria

Iron Reducing Bacteria

Iron Reducing Bacteria
FeRB isolated using a roll bottle technique from the former Uranium Mine near Ronneburg, Germany, Photo credit: Denise Akob, USGS

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Water Resources, Contaminant Biology, Toxic Substances Hydrology
Reston Microbiology Laboratory Roll Bottle

Iron Reducing Bacteria

Iron Reducing Bacteria

Iron Reducing Bacteria
FeRB isolated using a roll bottle technique from the former Uranium Mine near Ronneburg, Germany, Photo credit: Denise Akob, USGS

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Water Resources, Contaminant Biology, Toxic Substances Hydrology
US Geological Survey scientist measuring dissolved oxygen in a stream water sample.
US Geological Survey scientist measuring dissolved oxygen in a stream
US Geological Survey scientist measuring dissolved oxygen in a stream
US Geological Survey scientist measuring dissolved oxygen in a stream water sample.

US Geological Survey scientist measuring dissolved oxygen in a stream

US Geological Survey scientist measuring dissolved oxygen in a stream

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) scientist measuring dissolved oxygen in a stream water sample. The scientist is part of a USGS team of scientists that are investigating the potential environmental effects of activities at an oil and gas wastewater injection facility in West Virginia.

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Energy Resources Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program
US Geological Survey scientist measuring dissolved oxygen in a stream water sample.

US Geological Survey scientist measuring dissolved oxygen in a stream

US Geological Survey scientist measuring dissolved oxygen in a stream

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) scientist measuring dissolved oxygen in a stream water sample. The scientist is part of a USGS team of scientists that are investigating the potential environmental effects of activities at an oil and gas wastewater injection facility in West Virginia.

By
Energy Resources Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program
A view of the New River from the New River Gorge Bridge, West Virgina
A view of the New River from the New River Gorge Bridge, West Virgina
A view of the New River from the New River Gorge Bridge, West Virgina
A view of the New River from the New River Gorge Bridge, West Virgina

A view of the New River from the New River Gorge Bridge, West Virgina

A view of the New River from the New River Gorge Bridge, West Virgina

A view of the New River from the New River Gorge Bridge, West Virgina. Wolf Creek is a tributary of the New River. Photo: Denise M. Akob, USGS.

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Energy Resources Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program
A view of the New River from the New River Gorge Bridge, West Virgina

A view of the New River from the New River Gorge Bridge, West Virgina

A view of the New River from the New River Gorge Bridge, West Virgina

A view of the New River from the New River Gorge Bridge, West Virgina. Wolf Creek is a tributary of the New River. Photo: Denise M. Akob, USGS.

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Energy Resources Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program
Filter Total Items: 52

Treatability study to evaluate bioremediation of trichloroethene at Site K, former Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant, Arden Hills, Minnesota, 2020–22 Treatability study to evaluate bioremediation of trichloroethene at Site K, former Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant, Arden Hills, Minnesota, 2020–22

Executive Summary Chlorinated solvents, including trichloroethene (TCE) and other chlorinated volatile organic compounds (cVOCs), are widespread contaminants that can be treated by bioremediation approaches that enhance anaerobic reductive dechlorination. Reductive dechlorination can be enhanced either through the addition of an electron donor (biostimulation) or the addition of a known
Authors
Michelle M. Lorah, Emily H. Majcher, Adam C. Mumford, Ellie P. Foss, Trevor P. Needham, Andrew W. Psoras, Colin T. Livdahl, Jared J. Trost, Andrew M. Berg, Bridgette F. Polite, Denise M. Akob, Isabelle M. Cozzarelli
By
Water Resources Mission Area, Geology, Energy & Minerals Science Center, Maryland-Delaware-D.C. Water Science Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Reston Biogeochemical Processes in Groundwater Laboratory

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in waters associated with oil and gas development in the Denver Basin Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in waters associated with oil and gas development in the Denver Basin

Use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the petroleum industry could be a cause for concern due to the large volumes of produced water (PW) generated during oil and gas extraction, the reuse of these wastes in water-stressed regions, and adverse health outcomes related to PFAS exposures. However, PW PFAS characterization is nearly absent in the literature, and hydraulic...
Authors
Matthew S. Varonka, Aaron M. Jubb, Bonnie McDevitt, Jenna L. Shelton, Elliott P. Barnhart, Denise M. Akob, Isabelle M. Cozzarelli
By
Contaminant Biology, Energy Resources Program, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology, Geology, Energy & Minerals Science Center, Wyoming-Montana Water Science Center, Brine Research Instrumentation and Experimental (BRInE) Laboratory

Land application of biosolid, livestock, and drilling wastes to US farmland: A potential pathway for the redistribution of contaminants in the environment Land application of biosolid, livestock, and drilling wastes to US farmland: A potential pathway for the redistribution of contaminants in the environment

In the United States (U.S.), waste byproducts generated from the treatment of municipal waste (biosolids), production of livestock (livestock waste), and drilling of oil and gas wells (drilling waste) are commonly applied to agricultural lands. Although this can be a cost-effective reuse/disposal practice, there is limited research on the potential for contaminant exposures and effects...
Authors
Jason R. Masoner, Dana W. Kolpin, Isabelle M. Cozzarelli, Denise M. Akob, Christopher H. Conaway, Carrie E. Givens, Michelle L. Hladik, Laura E. Hubbard, Rachael F. Lane, R. Blaine McCleskey, Todd M. Preston, Clayton D. Raines, Matthew S. Varonka, Michaelah C. Wilson
By
Oklahoma-Texas Water Science Center

Comparative assessment of a restored and natural wetland using 13C-DNA SIP reveals a higher potential for methane production in the restored wetland Comparative assessment of a restored and natural wetland using 13C-DNA SIP reveals a higher potential for methane production in the restored wetland

Wetlands are the largest natural source of methane (CH4), a potent greenhouse gas produced by methanogens. Methanogenesis rates are controlled by environmental factors such as redox potential, temperature, and carbon and electron acceptor availability and are presumably dependent on the composition of the active methanogen community. We collected intact soil cores from a restored and...
Authors
Nora Hamovit, Taniya RoyChowdhury, Denise M. Akob, Xuesong Zhang, Gregory T. McCarty, Stephanie A. Yarwood
By
Energy Resources Program, Geology, Energy & Minerals Science Center, Reston Microbiology Laboratory

Perspectives on the future of ecology, evolution, and biodiversity from the Council on Microbial Sciences of the American Society for Microbiology Perspectives on the future of ecology, evolution, and biodiversity from the Council on Microbial Sciences of the American Society for Microbiology

The field of microbial ecology, evolution, and biodiversity (EEB) is at the leading edge of understanding how microbes shape our biosphere and influence the well-being of humankind. To that end, EEB is developing new tools to analyze the massive, complex, transdisciplinary datasets that result from such studies. The American Society for Microbiology’s Council on Microbial Sciences hosted...
Authors
Denise M. Akob, A. Elizabeth Oates, Peter R. Girguis, Brian Badgley, Vaughn Cooper, Rachel Poretsky, Braden T. Tierney, Elena Litchman, Rachel J. Whitaker, Katrine L. Whiteson, C. Jessica E. Metcalf, Ecology Evolutionary and Biodiversity Retreat Participants
By
Geology, Energy & Minerals Science Center, Reston Microbiology Laboratory

Perspectives on the future of host-microbe biology from the Council on Microbial Sciences of the American Society for Microbiology Perspectives on the future of host-microbe biology from the Council on Microbial Sciences of the American Society for Microbiology

Host-microbe biology (HMB) stands on the cusp of redefinition, challenging conventional paradigms to instead embrace a more holistic understanding of the microbial sciences. The American Society for Microbiology (ASM) Council on Microbial Sciences hosted a virtual retreat in 2023 to identify the future of the HMB field and innovations needed to advance the microbial sciences. The retreat
Authors
Monica Gestal, A. Elizabeth Oates, Denise M. Akob, Alison Criss, Host-Microbe Retreat Planning Committee, Host-Microbe Retreat Speakers
By
Geology, Energy & Minerals Science Center, Reston Microbiology Laboratory

Non-USGS Publications**

Keiner, R., A. Rusznyak, D. M. Akob, S. Hanf, K. Küsel, J. Popp, and T. Frosch. 2013. Raman spectroscopy – an innovative and versatile tool to follow the respirational activity and carbonate biomineralization of important cave bacteria. Analytical Chemistry, 85(18): 8708–8714 (DOI: 10.1021/ac401699d).
Gray, S. M., D. M. Akob, S. J. Green, and J. E. Kostka. 2012. The predictability of bacterial composition within the Sarracenia purpurea model system: local scale differences and relationships with the other members of the food web. PLoS One 7(12): e50969.
Akob, D. M.*, S. H. Lee*, M. Sheth, K. Küsel, D. B. Watson, A.V. Palumbo, J.E. Kostka, and K.-J. Chin. 2012. Gene expression correlates with process rates quantified for sulfate- and Fe(III)-reducing bacteria in U(VI)-contaminated sediments. Frontiers in Terrestrial Microbiology, 3:280. *Equal contribution.
Risse-Buhl, U., M. Herrmann, D. M. Akob, P. Geesink, N. Pizani, W. Schönborn, K.-U. Totsche and K. Küsel. 2012 Phagotrophic protist diversity in the groundwater of a karstic aquifer - morphological and molecular analysis. Journal of Eukaryotic Microbiology, 60(5): 467–479 (DOI: 10.1111/jeu.12054.
Rusznyák, A., D. M. Akob, S. Nietzsche, K. Eusterhues, K. U. Totsche, T. R. Neu, T. Frosch, J. Popp, R. Keiner, J. Geletneky, L. Katzschmann, E.-D. Schulze, and K. Küsel. 2012. Calcite biomineralization by bacterial isolates from the recently discovered pristine karstic Herrenberg Cave. Applied and Environmental Microbiology 78(4): 1157–1167.
Akob, D. M. and K. Küsel. 2011. Where microorganisms meet rocks in the Earth's Critical Zone. Biogeosciences 8, 3531-3543.
Akob, D. M., L. Kerkhof, K. Küsel, D. B. Watson, A. V. Palumbo, and J. E. Kostka. 2011. Linking specific heterotrophic bacterial populations to bioreduction of uranium and nitrate using stable isotope probing in contaminated subsurface sediments. Applied and Environmental Microbiology. 77(22):8197-8200
Burkhardt, E.-M., S. Bischoff, D. M. Akob, G. Büchel, and K. Küsel. 2011. Heavy metal tolerance of Fe(III)-reducing microbial communities in a contaminated creek bank soil. Applied and Environmental Microbiology 77(9): 3132-3136.
Lu, S., S. Gischkat, M. Reiche, D. M. Akob, K. B. Hallberg, and K. Küsel. 2010. Ecophysiology of Fe-cycling Bacteria in Acidic Sediments. Applied and Environmental Microbiology 76 (24): 8174-8183.
Vishnivetskaya, T. A., C. C. Brandt, A. S. Madden, M. S. Drake, J. E. Kostka, D. M. Akob, K. Küsel, and A. V. Palumbo. 2010. Microbial Community Changes in Response to Ethanol or Methanol Amendments for U(VI) Reduction. Applied and Environmental Microbiology 76(17): 5728-5735.
Sitte, J., D. M. Akob, C. Kaufmann, K. Finster, D. Banerjee, E.-M. Burkhardt, J. E. Kostka, A. Scheinost, Georg Büchel and K. Küsel. 2010. Microbial Links between Sulfate Reduction and Metal Retention in Uranium and Heavy Metal-contaminated Soil. Applied and Environmental Microbiology 76(10): 3143–3152.
Green, S. J., O. Prakash, T. M. Gihring, D. M. Akob, P. Jasrotia, P. M. Jardine, D. B. Watson, S. D. Brown, A. V. Palumbo and J. E. Kostka. 2010. Denitrifying bacteria from the terrestrial subsurface exposed to mixed waste contamination. Applied and Environmental Microbiology 76(10): 3244–3254.
Burkhardt, E.-M., D. M. Akob, S. Bischoff, J. Sitte, J. E. Kostka, D. Banerjee, A. C. Scheinost, K. Küsel. 2010. Impact of Biostimulated Redox Processes on Metal Dynamics in an Iron-rich Creek Soil of a former Uranium Mining Area. Environmental Science & Technology 44(1): 177-183.
O. Prakash, T.M. Gihring, D.D. Dalton, K.-J. Chin, S.J. Green, D.M. Akob, G. Wanger, J.E. Kostka. 2010. Geobacter daltonii sp. nov., an iron(III)- and uranium(VI)-reducing bacterium isolated from the shallow subsurface exposed to mixed heavy metal and hydrocarbon contamination. International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology 60: 546-553.
D. M. Akob, H. J. Mills, T. M. Gihring, L. Kerkhof, J. W. Stucki, Kuk-Jeong Chin, Kirsten Kuesel, Anthony V. Palumbo, David B. Watson, and Joel E. Kostka. 2008. Functional diversity and electron donor dependence of microbial populations capable of U(VI) reduction in radionuclide contaminated subsurface sediments. Applied and Environmental Microbiology 74: 3159-3170.
Blöthe, M., D.M. Akob, K. Walter, J.E. Kostka, H.L. Drake, and K. Küsel. 2008. Heterogeneity of Fe(III)-reducing microorganisms in coal-mining lake sediments caused by a pH gradient. Applied and Environmental Microbiology 74(4): 1019–102.
D. M. Akob, H. J. Mills, D. L. Swofford, J. E. Kostka. 2007. Metabolically-Active Microbial Communities in Uranium-Contaminated Subsurface Sediments. FEMS Microbiology Ecology 59: 95-107.

**Disclaimer: The views expressed in Non-USGS publications are those of the author and do not represent the views of the USGS, Department of the Interior, or the U.S. Government.

Illegal Oil and Gas Wastewater Dumps Disrupt Foundations of Fragile Desert Ecosystems

Illegal Oil and Gas Wastewater Dumps Disrupt Foundations of Fragile Desert Ecosystems

RESTON, Va. — Illegal dumping of oil and gas wastewater disrupts the microbes in desert ecosystems of southeast New Mexico and West Texas, according...

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Evidence of Unconventional Oil and Gas Wastewater Found in Surface Waters near Underground Injection Site

Evidence of Unconventional Oil and Gas Wastewater Found in Surface Waters near Underground Injection Site

These are the first published studies to demonstrate water-quality impacts to a surface stream due to activities at an unconventional oil and gas...

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The Chemistry of Waters that Follow from Fracking: A Case Study

The Chemistry of Waters that Follow from Fracking: A Case Study

In a study of 13 hydraulically fractured shale gas wells in north-central Pennsylvania, USGS researchers found that the microbiology and organic...

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Science and Products

Two whooping cranes walking through a marsh

Increasing Efficiency During the Life Cycle of Energy Development: Key Strategies for Improving the Utilization of Our Nation's Energy Resources

Energy development is critical to American energy independence and provides economic benefits to local communities. Scientific information is needed to aid in the sustainable development of energy resources. Sustainable energy development can include strategies for protecting environmental health and ecological services that benefit local communities. The USGS Environmental Health Program, Energy...
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Water Resources Mission Area, Contaminant Biology, Energy Resources Program, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology
Increasing Efficiency During the Life Cycle of Energy Development: Key Strategies for Improving the Utilization of Our Nation's Energy Resources

Increasing Efficiency During the Life Cycle of Energy Development: Key Strategies for Improving the Utilization of Our Nation's Energy Resources

Energy development is critical to American energy independence and provides economic benefits to local communities. Scientific information is needed to aid in the sustainable development of energy resources. Sustainable energy development can include strategies for protecting environmental health and ecological services that benefit local communities. The USGS Environmental Health Program, Energy...
Learn More
Prairie fading to hills with a snow-covered mountain in the background

Natural Solutions for Reducing PFOS Pollution in Our Environment

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of over 14,000 different man-made compounds that are widely used in various industrial and consumer products and linked to various health issues. Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) is a persistent synthetic chemical within the PFAS group, recognized for its widespread use and persistence in the environment. The U.S. Geological Survey is...
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology, Geology, Energy & Minerals Science Center, Maryland-Delaware-D.C. Water Science Center
Natural Solutions for Reducing PFOS Pollution in Our Environment

Natural Solutions for Reducing PFOS Pollution in Our Environment

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of over 14,000 different man-made compounds that are widely used in various industrial and consumer products and linked to various health issues. Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) is a persistent synthetic chemical within the PFAS group, recognized for its widespread use and persistence in the environment. The U.S. Geological Survey is...
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Picture of oil and gas development and associated activities along with wetlands in the Prairie Pothole Region..

Energy Resources Life Cycle Integrated Science Team

The Energy Resources Life Cycle Integrated Science Team focuses on the potential for environmental contaminant exposures that might originate from energy resource activities including extraction, production, transportation, storage, waste management, and restoration. Perceived health risks to humans and other organisms will be distinguished from actual risks, if any. If actual risks are identified...
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Ecosystems Mission Area, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology
Energy Resources Life Cycle Integrated Science Team

Energy Resources Life Cycle Integrated Science Team

The Energy Resources Life Cycle Integrated Science Team focuses on the potential for environmental contaminant exposures that might originate from energy resource activities including extraction, production, transportation, storage, waste management, and restoration. Perceived health risks to humans and other organisms will be distinguished from actual risks, if any. If actual risks are identified...
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Framework for Examining Stream Ecosystem Health in Areas of Shale Gas Development—A Multi-Parameter Watershed-Based Case Study in Pennsylvania

In a case study of 25 headwater streams in Pennsylvania, no statistically significant associations were determined between shale gas development and geochemical tracers of produced waters or measures of microbial and macroinvertebrate community composition. Although the results are specific to the region studied, the integrated biological and geochemical framework provides a tool for examining...
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Ecosystems Mission Area, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology
Framework for Examining Stream Ecosystem Health in Areas of Shale Gas Development—A Multi-Parameter Watershed-Based Case Study in Pennsylvania

Framework for Examining Stream Ecosystem Health in Areas of Shale Gas Development—A Multi-Parameter Watershed-Based Case Study in Pennsylvania

In a case study of 25 headwater streams in Pennsylvania, no statistically significant associations were determined between shale gas development and geochemical tracers of produced waters or measures of microbial and macroinvertebrate community composition. Although the results are specific to the region studied, the integrated biological and geochemical framework provides a tool for examining...
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Dr. Denise Akob giving a laboratory tour

Two Scientists Receive Early Career Excellence in Leadership Award

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) 2016 Early Career Excellence in Leadership Award was given to Dr. Denise M. Akob and Dr. Karl B. Haase. Drs. Akob and Haase have demonstrated outstanding leadership through their scientific accomplishments and service to the USGS.
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Ecosystems Mission Area, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology, Reston Microbiology Laboratory
Two Scientists Receive Early Career Excellence in Leadership Award

Two Scientists Receive Early Career Excellence in Leadership Award

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) 2016 Early Career Excellence in Leadership Award was given to Dr. Denise M. Akob and Dr. Karl B. Haase. Drs. Akob and Haase have demonstrated outstanding leadership through their scientific accomplishments and service to the USGS.
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USGS scientist collecting water samples on a wastewater disposal facility

Trace Levels of Organic Chemicals Limited to Local Reaches of a Stream near an Oil and Gas Wastewater Disposal Facility

Organic contaminants that were present in Wolf Creek near a wastewater disposal facility were not evident farther downstream where Wolf Creek enters the New River. Wolf Creek and the New River are used for drinking water and recreational purposes.
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Ecosystems Mission Area, Contaminant Biology, Energy Resources Program, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology
Trace Levels of Organic Chemicals Limited to Local Reaches of a Stream near an Oil and Gas Wastewater Disposal Facility

Trace Levels of Organic Chemicals Limited to Local Reaches of a Stream near an Oil and Gas Wastewater Disposal Facility

Organic contaminants that were present in Wolf Creek near a wastewater disposal facility were not evident farther downstream where Wolf Creek enters the New River. Wolf Creek and the New River are used for drinking water and recreational purposes.
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Filter Total Items: 17

Characterization of three common land-applied wastes: Inorganic, organic, and microbial compositions of biosolid, livestock, and drilling fluid waste, United States, 2021 and 2022 Characterization of three common land-applied wastes: Inorganic, organic, and microbial compositions of biosolid, livestock, and drilling fluid waste, United States, 2021 and 2022

It is common practice for waste byproducts generated from the treatment of municipal waste (biosolids), livestock production (manure), and oil and gas drilling operations (spent drill fluids and cuttings) to be applied to farmland as a cost-effective means of disposal. From June 2021 to January 2022, 34 samples of land-applied waste materials were collected in 14 U.S. states. Samples...
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Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in produced water from the Denver Basin Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in produced water from the Denver Basin

Per- and polyfluoroaklyl substances (PFAS) of are of interest due to their persistence and ubiquity in the environment and their potential health and environmental effects. While these compounds have been well studied in the past 10 years, little is known about PFAS in oil and gas produced waters, which are voluminous and have the potential to impact the environment through surficial...
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Energy Resources Program, Geology, Energy & Minerals Science Center

Data to support evaluation of bioremediation of trichloroethene at Site K, Former Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant, Arden Hills, Minnesota, 2020-2022 Data to support evaluation of bioremediation of trichloroethene at Site K, Former Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant, Arden Hills, Minnesota, 2020-2022

This metadata record consists of 16 tables containing data generated from laboratory experiments of trichloroethene (TCE) biodegradation and during field characterization and performance monitoring of a groundwater bioremediation pilot test conducted at Site K, Former Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant, Arden Hills, Minnesota. The data was collected from December 2020 through December...
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Water Resources Mission Area, Geology, Energy & Minerals Science Center, Maryland-Delaware-D.C. Water Science Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Reston Biogeochemical Processes in Groundwater Laboratory

Data Collected to Evaluate Sources, Fate, and Mobility of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) at Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico Data Collected to Evaluate Sources, Fate, and Mobility of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) at Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico

Soil, soil porewater, groundwater, and playa lake sediment samples were collected between September 2021 and November 2023 at Cannon Air Force Base (CAFB) in eastern New Mexico as part of a study on the sources, fate, and transport of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Soil cores (2-foot-long) were collected in September 2021 from six sites that were potential PFAS source areas...
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Maryland-Delaware-D.C. Water Science Center

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and volatile organic compounds measured in laboratory microcosm experiments with soil from Fort Drum, New York Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and volatile organic compounds measured in laboratory microcosm experiments with soil from Fort Drum, New York

Anaerobic microcosm experiments were conducted in April-May 2018 with PFAS-contaminated soil from a U.S. Army installation (Fort Drum, New York) and simulated groundwater. All microcosms, except for a live sediment control, were amended with perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS), perfluorooctanoate (PFOA), and 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate (6:2 FtS). Replicate treatments were prepared with and...
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Maryland-Delaware-D.C. Water Science Center

Geochemistry and microbiology data collected to study the effects of oil and gas wastewater dumping on arid lands in New Mexico Geochemistry and microbiology data collected to study the effects of oil and gas wastewater dumping on arid lands in New Mexico

The Permian Basin, straddling New Mexico and Texas, is one of the most productive oil and gas (OG) provinces in the United States. OG production yields large volumes of wastewater that contain elevated concentrations of major ions including salts (also referred to as brines), and trace organic and inorganic constituents. These OG wastewaters pose unknown environmental health risks...
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Water Resources Mission Area, Energy Resources Program, Environmental Health Program, Columbia Environmental Research Center, Geology, Energy & Minerals Science Center, Eastern Energy and Environmental Laboratory (EEEL), Reston Biogeochemical Processes in Groundwater Laboratory, Reston Microbiology Laboratory
Reston Microbiology Laboratory 2016
Reston Microbiology Laboratory 2016
Reston Microbiology Laboratory 2016
Reston Microbiology Laboratory 2016

Reston Microbiology Laboratory 2016

Reston Microbiology Laboratory 2016

The Reston Microbiology Laboratory Group headed by Denise Akob. 2016

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Water Resources
Reston Microbiology Laboratory 2016

Reston Microbiology Laboratory 2016

Reston Microbiology Laboratory 2016

The Reston Microbiology Laboratory Group headed by Denise Akob. 2016

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Water Resources
Reston Microbiology Laboratory Roll Bottle
Iron Reducing Bacteria
Iron Reducing Bacteria
Reston Microbiology Laboratory Roll Bottle

Iron Reducing Bacteria

Iron Reducing Bacteria

Iron Reducing Bacteria
FeRB isolated using a roll bottle technique from the former Uranium Mine near Ronneburg, Germany, Photo credit: Denise Akob, USGS

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Water Resources, Contaminant Biology, Toxic Substances Hydrology
Reston Microbiology Laboratory Roll Bottle

Iron Reducing Bacteria

Iron Reducing Bacteria

Iron Reducing Bacteria
FeRB isolated using a roll bottle technique from the former Uranium Mine near Ronneburg, Germany, Photo credit: Denise Akob, USGS

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Water Resources, Contaminant Biology, Toxic Substances Hydrology
US Geological Survey scientist measuring dissolved oxygen in a stream water sample.
US Geological Survey scientist measuring dissolved oxygen in a stream
US Geological Survey scientist measuring dissolved oxygen in a stream
US Geological Survey scientist measuring dissolved oxygen in a stream water sample.

US Geological Survey scientist measuring dissolved oxygen in a stream

US Geological Survey scientist measuring dissolved oxygen in a stream

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) scientist measuring dissolved oxygen in a stream water sample. The scientist is part of a USGS team of scientists that are investigating the potential environmental effects of activities at an oil and gas wastewater injection facility in West Virginia.

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Energy Resources Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program
US Geological Survey scientist measuring dissolved oxygen in a stream water sample.

US Geological Survey scientist measuring dissolved oxygen in a stream

US Geological Survey scientist measuring dissolved oxygen in a stream

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) scientist measuring dissolved oxygen in a stream water sample. The scientist is part of a USGS team of scientists that are investigating the potential environmental effects of activities at an oil and gas wastewater injection facility in West Virginia.

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Energy Resources Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program
A view of the New River from the New River Gorge Bridge, West Virgina
A view of the New River from the New River Gorge Bridge, West Virgina
A view of the New River from the New River Gorge Bridge, West Virgina
A view of the New River from the New River Gorge Bridge, West Virgina

A view of the New River from the New River Gorge Bridge, West Virgina

A view of the New River from the New River Gorge Bridge, West Virgina

A view of the New River from the New River Gorge Bridge, West Virgina. Wolf Creek is a tributary of the New River. Photo: Denise M. Akob, USGS.

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Energy Resources Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program
A view of the New River from the New River Gorge Bridge, West Virgina

A view of the New River from the New River Gorge Bridge, West Virgina

A view of the New River from the New River Gorge Bridge, West Virgina

A view of the New River from the New River Gorge Bridge, West Virgina. Wolf Creek is a tributary of the New River. Photo: Denise M. Akob, USGS.

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Energy Resources Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology, Contaminant Biology, Environmental Health Program
Filter Total Items: 52

Treatability study to evaluate bioremediation of trichloroethene at Site K, former Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant, Arden Hills, Minnesota, 2020–22 Treatability study to evaluate bioremediation of trichloroethene at Site K, former Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant, Arden Hills, Minnesota, 2020–22

Executive Summary Chlorinated solvents, including trichloroethene (TCE) and other chlorinated volatile organic compounds (cVOCs), are widespread contaminants that can be treated by bioremediation approaches that enhance anaerobic reductive dechlorination. Reductive dechlorination can be enhanced either through the addition of an electron donor (biostimulation) or the addition of a known
Authors
Michelle M. Lorah, Emily H. Majcher, Adam C. Mumford, Ellie P. Foss, Trevor P. Needham, Andrew W. Psoras, Colin T. Livdahl, Jared J. Trost, Andrew M. Berg, Bridgette F. Polite, Denise M. Akob, Isabelle M. Cozzarelli
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Water Resources Mission Area, Geology, Energy & Minerals Science Center, Maryland-Delaware-D.C. Water Science Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Reston Biogeochemical Processes in Groundwater Laboratory

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in waters associated with oil and gas development in the Denver Basin Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in waters associated with oil and gas development in the Denver Basin

Use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the petroleum industry could be a cause for concern due to the large volumes of produced water (PW) generated during oil and gas extraction, the reuse of these wastes in water-stressed regions, and adverse health outcomes related to PFAS exposures. However, PW PFAS characterization is nearly absent in the literature, and hydraulic...
Authors
Matthew S. Varonka, Aaron M. Jubb, Bonnie McDevitt, Jenna L. Shelton, Elliott P. Barnhart, Denise M. Akob, Isabelle M. Cozzarelli
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Contaminant Biology, Energy Resources Program, Environmental Health Program, Toxic Substances Hydrology, Geology, Energy & Minerals Science Center, Wyoming-Montana Water Science Center, Brine Research Instrumentation and Experimental (BRInE) Laboratory

Land application of biosolid, livestock, and drilling wastes to US farmland: A potential pathway for the redistribution of contaminants in the environment Land application of biosolid, livestock, and drilling wastes to US farmland: A potential pathway for the redistribution of contaminants in the environment

In the United States (U.S.), waste byproducts generated from the treatment of municipal waste (biosolids), production of livestock (livestock waste), and drilling of oil and gas wells (drilling waste) are commonly applied to agricultural lands. Although this can be a cost-effective reuse/disposal practice, there is limited research on the potential for contaminant exposures and effects...
Authors
Jason R. Masoner, Dana W. Kolpin, Isabelle M. Cozzarelli, Denise M. Akob, Christopher H. Conaway, Carrie E. Givens, Michelle L. Hladik, Laura E. Hubbard, Rachael F. Lane, R. Blaine McCleskey, Todd M. Preston, Clayton D. Raines, Matthew S. Varonka, Michaelah C. Wilson
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Oklahoma-Texas Water Science Center

Comparative assessment of a restored and natural wetland using 13C-DNA SIP reveals a higher potential for methane production in the restored wetland Comparative assessment of a restored and natural wetland using 13C-DNA SIP reveals a higher potential for methane production in the restored wetland

Wetlands are the largest natural source of methane (CH4), a potent greenhouse gas produced by methanogens. Methanogenesis rates are controlled by environmental factors such as redox potential, temperature, and carbon and electron acceptor availability and are presumably dependent on the composition of the active methanogen community. We collected intact soil cores from a restored and...
Authors
Nora Hamovit, Taniya RoyChowdhury, Denise M. Akob, Xuesong Zhang, Gregory T. McCarty, Stephanie A. Yarwood
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Energy Resources Program, Geology, Energy & Minerals Science Center, Reston Microbiology Laboratory

Perspectives on the future of ecology, evolution, and biodiversity from the Council on Microbial Sciences of the American Society for Microbiology Perspectives on the future of ecology, evolution, and biodiversity from the Council on Microbial Sciences of the American Society for Microbiology

The field of microbial ecology, evolution, and biodiversity (EEB) is at the leading edge of understanding how microbes shape our biosphere and influence the well-being of humankind. To that end, EEB is developing new tools to analyze the massive, complex, transdisciplinary datasets that result from such studies. The American Society for Microbiology’s Council on Microbial Sciences hosted...
Authors
Denise M. Akob, A. Elizabeth Oates, Peter R. Girguis, Brian Badgley, Vaughn Cooper, Rachel Poretsky, Braden T. Tierney, Elena Litchman, Rachel J. Whitaker, Katrine L. Whiteson, C. Jessica E. Metcalf, Ecology Evolutionary and Biodiversity Retreat Participants
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Geology, Energy & Minerals Science Center, Reston Microbiology Laboratory

Perspectives on the future of host-microbe biology from the Council on Microbial Sciences of the American Society for Microbiology Perspectives on the future of host-microbe biology from the Council on Microbial Sciences of the American Society for Microbiology

Host-microbe biology (HMB) stands on the cusp of redefinition, challenging conventional paradigms to instead embrace a more holistic understanding of the microbial sciences. The American Society for Microbiology (ASM) Council on Microbial Sciences hosted a virtual retreat in 2023 to identify the future of the HMB field and innovations needed to advance the microbial sciences. The retreat
Authors
Monica Gestal, A. Elizabeth Oates, Denise M. Akob, Alison Criss, Host-Microbe Retreat Planning Committee, Host-Microbe Retreat Speakers
By
Geology, Energy & Minerals Science Center, Reston Microbiology Laboratory

Non-USGS Publications**

Keiner, R., A. Rusznyak, D. M. Akob, S. Hanf, K. Küsel, J. Popp, and T. Frosch. 2013. Raman spectroscopy – an innovative and versatile tool to follow the respirational activity and carbonate biomineralization of important cave bacteria. Analytical Chemistry, 85(18): 8708–8714 (DOI: 10.1021/ac401699d).
Gray, S. M., D. M. Akob, S. J. Green, and J. E. Kostka. 2012. The predictability of bacterial composition within the Sarracenia purpurea model system: local scale differences and relationships with the other members of the food web. PLoS One 7(12): e50969.
Akob, D. M.*, S. H. Lee*, M. Sheth, K. Küsel, D. B. Watson, A.V. Palumbo, J.E. Kostka, and K.-J. Chin. 2012. Gene expression correlates with process rates quantified for sulfate- and Fe(III)-reducing bacteria in U(VI)-contaminated sediments. Frontiers in Terrestrial Microbiology, 3:280. *Equal contribution.
Risse-Buhl, U., M. Herrmann, D. M. Akob, P. Geesink, N. Pizani, W. Schönborn, K.-U. Totsche and K. Küsel. 2012 Phagotrophic protist diversity in the groundwater of a karstic aquifer - morphological and molecular analysis. Journal of Eukaryotic Microbiology, 60(5): 467–479 (DOI: 10.1111/jeu.12054.
Rusznyák, A., D. M. Akob, S. Nietzsche, K. Eusterhues, K. U. Totsche, T. R. Neu, T. Frosch, J. Popp, R. Keiner, J. Geletneky, L. Katzschmann, E.-D. Schulze, and K. Küsel. 2012. Calcite biomineralization by bacterial isolates from the recently discovered pristine karstic Herrenberg Cave. Applied and Environmental Microbiology 78(4): 1157–1167.
Akob, D. M. and K. Küsel. 2011. Where microorganisms meet rocks in the Earth's Critical Zone. Biogeosciences 8, 3531-3543.
Akob, D. M., L. Kerkhof, K. Küsel, D. B. Watson, A. V. Palumbo, and J. E. Kostka. 2011. Linking specific heterotrophic bacterial populations to bioreduction of uranium and nitrate using stable isotope probing in contaminated subsurface sediments. Applied and Environmental Microbiology. 77(22):8197-8200
Burkhardt, E.-M., S. Bischoff, D. M. Akob, G. Büchel, and K. Küsel. 2011. Heavy metal tolerance of Fe(III)-reducing microbial communities in a contaminated creek bank soil. Applied and Environmental Microbiology 77(9): 3132-3136.
Lu, S., S. Gischkat, M. Reiche, D. M. Akob, K. B. Hallberg, and K. Küsel. 2010. Ecophysiology of Fe-cycling Bacteria in Acidic Sediments. Applied and Environmental Microbiology 76 (24): 8174-8183.
Vishnivetskaya, T. A., C. C. Brandt, A. S. Madden, M. S. Drake, J. E. Kostka, D. M. Akob, K. Küsel, and A. V. Palumbo. 2010. Microbial Community Changes in Response to Ethanol or Methanol Amendments for U(VI) Reduction. Applied and Environmental Microbiology 76(17): 5728-5735.
Sitte, J., D. M. Akob, C. Kaufmann, K. Finster, D. Banerjee, E.-M. Burkhardt, J. E. Kostka, A. Scheinost, Georg Büchel and K. Küsel. 2010. Microbial Links between Sulfate Reduction and Metal Retention in Uranium and Heavy Metal-contaminated Soil. Applied and Environmental Microbiology 76(10): 3143–3152.
Green, S. J., O. Prakash, T. M. Gihring, D. M. Akob, P. Jasrotia, P. M. Jardine, D. B. Watson, S. D. Brown, A. V. Palumbo and J. E. Kostka. 2010. Denitrifying bacteria from the terrestrial subsurface exposed to mixed waste contamination. Applied and Environmental Microbiology 76(10): 3244–3254.
Burkhardt, E.-M., D. M. Akob, S. Bischoff, J. Sitte, J. E. Kostka, D. Banerjee, A. C. Scheinost, K. Küsel. 2010. Impact of Biostimulated Redox Processes on Metal Dynamics in an Iron-rich Creek Soil of a former Uranium Mining Area. Environmental Science & Technology 44(1): 177-183.
O. Prakash, T.M. Gihring, D.D. Dalton, K.-J. Chin, S.J. Green, D.M. Akob, G. Wanger, J.E. Kostka. 2010. Geobacter daltonii sp. nov., an iron(III)- and uranium(VI)-reducing bacterium isolated from the shallow subsurface exposed to mixed heavy metal and hydrocarbon contamination. International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology 60: 546-553.
D. M. Akob, H. J. Mills, T. M. Gihring, L. Kerkhof, J. W. Stucki, Kuk-Jeong Chin, Kirsten Kuesel, Anthony V. Palumbo, David B. Watson, and Joel E. Kostka. 2008. Functional diversity and electron donor dependence of microbial populations capable of U(VI) reduction in radionuclide contaminated subsurface sediments. Applied and Environmental Microbiology 74: 3159-3170.
Blöthe, M., D.M. Akob, K. Walter, J.E. Kostka, H.L. Drake, and K. Küsel. 2008. Heterogeneity of Fe(III)-reducing microorganisms in coal-mining lake sediments caused by a pH gradient. Applied and Environmental Microbiology 74(4): 1019–102.
D. M. Akob, H. J. Mills, D. L. Swofford, J. E. Kostka. 2007. Metabolically-Active Microbial Communities in Uranium-Contaminated Subsurface Sediments. FEMS Microbiology Ecology 59: 95-107.

**Disclaimer: The views expressed in Non-USGS publications are those of the author and do not represent the views of the USGS, Department of the Interior, or the U.S. Government.

Illegal Oil and Gas Wastewater Dumps Disrupt Foundations of Fragile Desert Ecosystems

Illegal Oil and Gas Wastewater Dumps Disrupt Foundations of Fragile Desert Ecosystems

RESTON, Va. — Illegal dumping of oil and gas wastewater disrupts the microbes in desert ecosystems of southeast New Mexico and West Texas, according...

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Evidence of Unconventional Oil and Gas Wastewater Found in Surface Waters near Underground Injection Site

Evidence of Unconventional Oil and Gas Wastewater Found in Surface Waters near Underground Injection Site

These are the first published studies to demonstrate water-quality impacts to a surface stream due to activities at an unconventional oil and gas...

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The Chemistry of Waters that Follow from Fracking: A Case Study

The Chemistry of Waters that Follow from Fracking: A Case Study

In a study of 13 hydraulically fractured shale gas wells in north-central Pennsylvania, USGS researchers found that the microbiology and organic...

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*Disclaimer: Listing outside positions with professional scientific organizations on this Staff Profile are for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement of those professional scientific organizations or their activities by the USGS, Department of the Interior, or U.S. Government

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