Mónica Sánchez-Román | Geobiology & Astrobiology
About Me
I am Mónica Sánchez-Román, a Professor of Geobiology and Sedimentary Geochemistry at the University of Granada. My research program is dedicated to investigating the intricate interplay between the biosphere and geosphere, with a particular focus on extreme environments. This is my main area of expertise, specifically regarding microbial dolomite and low-temperature carbonate formation. My work is fundamental to understanding mineral-microbe interactions and their implications for the origins of life on Earth and the critical search for life beyond our planet (astrobiology). My approach is inherently interdisciplinary, seamlessly integrating geomicrobiology, sedimentary geochemistry, and astrobiology to address complex scientific questions.
"Engaging with fellow scientists and the public is incredibly rewarding. sharing insights on geobiology, astrobiology, and the unique conditions of extreme environments not only helps advance our collective understanding but also truly inspires the next wave of exploration in these fields."
Career Path
I earned my Ph.D. in Earth Sciences from the prestigious Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zurich). Following my doctoral studies, I conducted impactful research at the University of Georgia and the Savannah River National Laboratory in the USA, supported by NASA funding, where I focused on low-temperature carbonate formation and its astrobiology relevance. I then joined INTA in Spain as an ERC-funded postdoctoral researcher, investigating carbonate and sulfate mineral formation in acidic systems.
I spent over a decade at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, where I was instrumental in establishing the Geobiology Laboratory and Research Group. During this period, I spearheaded interdisciplinary initiatives bridging microbiology, geochemistry, and planetary sciences. Currently, I hold a professorship at the University of Granada, where I continue my pioneering research on biotic and abiotic mineral formation within Earth analogs and the broader context of planetary exploration.
Research
My research is characterized by a highly interdisciplinary philosophy, combining geomicrobiology, sedimentary geochemistry, and astrobiology. I specialize in understanding how microbial processes mediate carbonate precipitation in challenging saline, alkaline, and acidic systems – environments where conventional geochemical models often fall short. My groundbreaking work on microbial dolomite formation has provided critical insights into long-standing geochemical enigmas, powerfully demonstrating the role of life in shaping mineral systems under extreme conditions.
My key research interests include:
- Sedimentary geochemistry of carbonates, phosphates, sulfates, and silicates.
- Geomicrobiology and biogeochemistry.
- Biomineralization and mineral-microbe interactions.
- The use of isotope tracers in biological and inorganic systems.
- Astrobiology, Early Earth, and Mars analog environments, including field studies in locations like Lagoa Vermelha, Brejo do Espinho (Brazil), and the acidic Río Tinto system (Spain). These studies are vital for understanding biosignature formation in early Earth and planetary contexts.
- Applications of nanotechnology in geosciences.
My field-based investigations inform the development of biosignature detection strategies for planetary missions and enhance our capacity to interpret geobiological evidence in extraterrestrial settings.
Publications
I have published extensively in leading scientific journals, contributing significantly to the fields of biogeochemistry, microbial mineralization, and astrobiology. My work is widely cited and presented at international conferences.
Teaching
As a Professor at the University of Granada, I am deeply committed to educating the next generation of scientists in Geobiology, Sedimentary Geochemistry, and related fields. I contribute to several courses within the Earth Sciences program, sharing my expertise in areas such as biogeochemistry, mineral-microbe interactions, and the geological context of astrobiology. My goal in teaching is to inspire students to explore the fascinating connections between life and the Earth’s systems, preparing them for future research and challenges in these dynamic disciplines.
Outreach & Activities
Beyond my core research and teaching responsibilities, I am actively engaged in the broader scientific community and dedicated to public science outreach. I regularly participate in international scientific conferences, presenting my latest findings on topics like microbial dolomite, astrobiology, and extreme environments, fostering collaboration and discussion with peers globally. Furthermore, I believe strongly in communicating the importance of geobiology and the search for life beyond Earth to the public. My published work, while primarily aimed at the scientific community, also serves as a foundation for these outreach efforts, showcasing contributions that advance our understanding of how life interacts with the geological world, from Earth’s past to potential extraterrestrial environments. I am involved in various initiatives to share the excitement of geomicrobiology and astrobiology with a wider audience.
Get In Touch
Got a question about geobiology, astrobiology, or a potential collaboration? Don’t be a stranger! Just use the form below to connect. I’m always keen to hear from fellow researchers and curious minds, and I’ll get back to you directly.