Tamar Barkay

Promoting critical thinking in the realm of microbial ecology, Tamar Barkay serves as a Distinguished Professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology at Rutgers SEBS. With a profound dedication to understanding the intricate relationships between microbes and their environments, her research primarily focuses on the microbial transformation of metals. This includes investigating how these transformations impact toxicity and accumulation patterns within various ecosystems. Professor Barkay's work delves deeply into the genetics and physiology of metal resistance and transformations in bacteria. Her research is pivotal in advancing the field of bioremediation, particularly in metal-contaminated environments. By exploring the role of microbes in the formation and accumulation of methylmercury in aquatic settings, she contributes significantly to our understanding of environmental health and safety. Her research methodology is heavily reliant on cutting-edge molecular tools. Techniques such as cloning, gene probing, mRNA transcript analysis, metagenomics, and metatranscriptomics are integral to her studies in microbial ecology. These tools enable her to unravel the complex genetic and functional dynamics of microbial communities in response to metal exposure. Throughout her career, Professor Barkay has been committed to fostering an academic environment that encourages innovation and exploration. Her work not only enhances our scientific understanding but also provides practical solutions for environmental challenges. By bridging the gap between molecular biology and environmental science, she continues to inspire future generations of scientists. In addition to her research, Professor Barkay is actively involved in mentoring students and young researchers, guiding them in their academic and professional pursuits. Her dedication to education and research excellence has made her a respected figure in the scientific community, both nationally and internationally. Through her extensive research and teaching, Tamar Barkay exemplifies the integration of scientific inquiry with real-world applications, making significant contributions to the fields of molecular and microbial ecology. Her work remains at the forefront of efforts to address and mitigate the impacts of metal pollution in our environment.