Kazem Kashefi

Kazem Kashefi is a Fixed-Term Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology, Genetics, & Immunology at Michigan State University's BioMolecular Science Gateway. His research explores extremophilic microorganisms, particularly hyperthermophilic Fe(III)-reducing microbes, to understand Earth's early life origins and extraterrestrial life potential.

• Education: Ph.D. in Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Queen Mary College-University of London; Postdoctoral work at UCLA and UMass-Amherst

Research Focus

Kashefi's work centers on dissimilatory metal reduction in high-temperature environments like hydrothermal vents. His discovery of strain 121, which thrives at 121°C (250°F), challenges sterilization assumptions and informs astrobiology. Research also connects microbial metal reduction to uranium, technetium, and gold ore formation, with industrial applications in thermophilic enzymes.

Scientific Recognition

• Popular Science's Extremophile of the Year (strain 121)
• Guinness Book of World Records entry for "Most heat-tolerant water-based organism"

Kashefi teaches MMG 499: Undergraduate Research, bridging educational mentorship with cutting-edge microbial science.