John R. Spear

John R. Spear is a Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the Colorado School of Mines (College of Engineering). His research focuses on microbial ecology and geobiology, exploring the interplay between microorganisms and geological processes in diverse environments, including extreme habitats like serpentinized subsurface systems, glacial ecosystems, and hot springs. He has held leadership roles, including Associate Vice President for Research (2015–2018) and co-director of the International Geobiology Course (2010–2016). His work integrates field studies with advanced techniques like metagenomics, metabolomics, and bioinformatics.

Education: PhD, MS (Colorado School of Mines); BA (University of California, San Diego). Early career included postdoctoral research at the University of Colorado Boulder and fieldwork with the National Outdoor Leadership School.

Research Interests: Microbial diversity in extreme environments (e.g., Oman’s Samail Ophiolite, Arctic glaciers, Yellowstone hot springs), microbial roles in geochemical cycles (carbon, sulfur, iron), astrobiology, and bioremediation. Current projects include studying microbiomes in serpentinizing systems, snowfall microbiology, and microbial-driven corrosion.

Awards: Recipient of the Martin Luther King Award for Diversity (2010), multiple Faculty of the Year awards, and prestigious postdoctoral fellowships. Recognized for contributions to geobiology education and mentoring.

Teaching: Courses include Molecular Microbial Ecology, National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and environmental engineering. Engages students in international fieldwork through the McBride Honors Program (Nepal, global environmental issues).

Labs/Teams: Spear Research Group at CSM collaborates with NASA Astrobiology Institute (Rock-Powered Life Team) and operates the Edgar Experimental Mine for subsurface microbiology studies. Active in interdisciplinary projects linking geology, microbiology, and environmental engineering.