The Organic Geochemistry group investigates the origin, properties and fate of organic material in the geosphere. We are particularly interested in organic compounds as carbon and energy sources for microorganisms. Microbial metabolism is a key element of the biogeochemical carbon cycle. Its end products are the greenhouse gases carbon dioxide and methane, which are released into the atmosphere and can thus influence the Earth's climate system. Precise structural knowledge of the organic compounds involved is of fundamental importance.

Our research focuses on the following key areas:

• Molecular mechanisms of key biogeochemical reactions and metabolic pathways of marine microorganisms
• Fate and transformation processes of hydrocarbons and petroleum in the environment
• Anthropogenic pollutants including microplastics in marine ecosystems
• Reconstruction of environmental and climate history with organic proxy parameters

We use state-of-the-art analytical methods for our investigations, in particular the coupling of chromatographic (gas and liquid chromatography) and mass spectrometric (organic mass spectrometry, isotope mass spectrometry) methods. In our function as central organic analytics, equipment and analytical expertise are also available for research projects of other ICBM working groups.