Kathleen Scott

Kathleen Scott is a Professor and Graduate Program Director in the Department of Integrative Biology at the University of South Florida's College of Arts and Sciences. Her research focuses on microbial physiology, particularly the metabolism of autotrophic microorganisms that fix carbon dioxide using chemolithoautotrophic processes. She leads the Scott Lab, which investigates carbon uptake mechanisms in marine systems including deep-sea hydrothermal vents and ocean surface communities.

Education:

• Ph.D. Biology, Penn State University, 1998
• Postdoctoral Fellowship, Harvard University

Research Interests: Exploring autotrophic diversity across domains of life, mechanisms of carbon fixation pathways, and applications in agriculture/industrial biotechnology. Her work integrates bioinformatics, molecular biology, and field studies in extreme environments.

Teaching: Known for engaging courses in microbial physiology, genomics, and deep-sea biology, emphasizing practical applications and ecological significance.

Labs/Teams: Directs the Scott Lab focused on autotrophic microbial systems, combining laboratory experimentation with fieldwork in marine environments.