Allyson Brady

Allyson Brady is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology at Carleton University, Faculty of Science. Her research focuses on microbial ecology, astrobiology, and environmental biotechnology. She holds degrees from University of Guelph (B.Sc.), Western University (M.A.), and McMaster University (Ph.D.).

Brady investigates microbial interactions in extreme environments, using organic biomarkers and isotope analysis to study carbon cycling and biosignature formation. Her work bridges Earth's ecosystems and potential extraterrestrial habitats, with implications for planetary exploration and bioremediation.

Key research themes include microbial diversity in subsurface environments, astrobiology sample site selection, and microbial contributions to carbon sequestration. She has conducted fieldwork in Antarctic lakes, oil sands ecosystems, and volcanic terrain analogs for Mars.

Her publications emphasize interdisciplinary approaches, combining microbiology, geochemistry, and planetary science. Brady collaborates on NASA's BASALT program, developing strategies for human Mars mission operations and sample collection protocols.