Laura C. Motta

Preferred Name: Laura Motta

Assistant Scientist

Marine Chemistry & Geochemistry

Email: laura.motta@whoi.edu

Phone: 508 289 3137

Website: https://www2.whoi.edu/site/mottalab/

Education

• Double Ph.D., Earth Sciences and Chemistry, University of Michigan (Double Degree 2019)

• B.A., Chemistry, Rutgers University (2013)

Research Statement

Our research group is interested in questions that span the theoretical chemistry–biological oceanography continuum. We aim to uncover the physical chemistry underlying the interactions of complex organisms with light in marine waters. The interplay between light and chemical reactions in living systems in our oceans adds a fascinating new dimension to our understanding of chemistry. The central theme of our research is the development and application of non-traditional isotope effects, particularly mercury and sulfur, to understand these phenomena.