James Moffett

James Moffett is a Professor of Biological Sciences and Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Southern California (USC). He holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Oceanography from the University of Miami (1986) and completed postdoctoral training at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (1986–1988). His research focuses on marine geochemistry, trace metal biogeochemistry, and environmental bioinorganic chemistry. Key areas of investigation include the speciation and redox chemistry of trace elements in natural waters, metal-phytoplankton interactions, and bacterial-mediated metal precipitation reactions. Moffett has contributed significantly to understanding iron cycling in oxygen-deficient zones, hydrothermal plumes, and coastal environments. His work spans global oceans, including studies in the Pacific, Indian, and Southern Oceans. He serves as an Associate Editor for Marine Chemistry (2010–2011) and maintains an active research program involving interdisciplinary collaborations. His laboratory and fieldwork address critical questions in oceanography and biogeochemistry, with a focus on nutrient dynamics and the impacts of environmental conditions on chemical processes.

Education: Ph.D., Chemical Oceanography, University of Miami (1986); B.S., Chemistry, University of Otago (1981); Postdoctoral Scholar, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (1986–1988).

Research Interests: Geochemistry of oceans, trace element transport, metal-phytoplankton interactions, hypoxic zones, and hydrothermal systems. His studies integrate field observations, laboratory experiments, and modeling to elucidate biogeochemical cycles and their environmental implications.

Advising and Grants: While specific student advisees are not listed, Moffett’s research involves collaborative projects with graduate students and postdoctoral researchers. His grants and collaborations focus on advancing understanding of trace metal dynamics in marine environments.

Labs/Teams: Affiliated with USC’s Department of Biological Sciences and Civil and Environmental Engineering, contributing to interdisciplinary initiatives in oceanography and environmental science.