Observe
Environmental engineering + microbiology
We study how microbes reshape their environment.
Our lab brings microbiology and engineering together to understand how microbes shape their surroundings and how we can apply that knowledge to improve soil health and protect water quality.
Welcome to the Alcalde Lab
Engineering with
microbial life.
We’re launching the Alcalde Lab at Penn State in January 2027. We’re recruiting two PhD students for Fall 2027 and welcome inquiries from prospective postdocs.
What we do
Microbial life in context.
We study how microbes function and interact in structured environments, and how their activity influences nutrient cycling and environmental chemistry. We apply this knowledge to investigate bioaugmentation and biostimulation strategies for agricultural nutrient management, and to develop biosensors for measuring conditions in soils and water.
How we do it
The question shapes the approach.
We design controlled experiments to uncover microbial mechanisms while retaining the environmental features that matter. We then test whether those mechanisms hold in more complex systems. When existing methods aren’t enough, we develop new tools.
Why we do it
Understanding that informs engineering.
We investigate how microbial processes can improve nutrient use, reduce fertilizer dependence and nutrient losses, and protect water quality. By connecting nutrient management with the energy demands of agriculture and its effects on water resources, our work contributes to the energy–food–water nexus.