Zackary Johnson

Zackary Johnson, the Juli Plant Grainger Associate Professor of Biological Oceanography and Marine Biotechnology at Duke University, leads interdisciplinary research at the intersection of marine microbiology and biogeochemical innovation. Affiliated with the Nicholas School of the Environment and based at the Duke Marine Laboratory, his work spans microbial ecology, algal biotechnology, and climate mitigation strategies.

• Education: Ph.D. in Marine Science (Duke University, 2004), B.S. in Biology (MIT, 1994)

Research Interests focus on marine microbial communities, particularly the model phytoplankton Prochlorococcus, algal cultivation for sustainable bioproducts, and the ecological impacts of ocean acidification. His lab investigates microbial interactions across diverse environments—from coastal estuaries to open-ocean gyres—and develops technologies for carbon-negative aquaculture systems.

Publications highlight expertise in microbial biogeography, algal biofuels, and climate-resilient marine food webs. Recent work explores drone-based ocean color sensing, Gulf Stream eddy microbiomes, and the role of Labyrinthulomycetes protists in carbon export.

• Scientific Awards:
  • Juli Plant Grainger Associate Professorship
  • DOE and NSF-funded projects

Grants include high-profile initiatives like the Marine Algae Industrialization Consortium (MAGIC) and REU Site program for coastal research training. His lab maintains a dedicated research site for studying microbial dynamics and sustainable algal cultivation.