12.458  Molecular Biogeochemistry

All,

Thanks for your patience.

The original syllabus called for two term papers.  I am removing the second of these from consideration so that you can focus on the lab report.

This should comprise a descrption of the sample and its pedigree.

Include a brief summary of the experimental protocol followed and the steps taken to minimise laboratory contamination. Include a results section with TIC of hydrocarbon, FAME and derivatised F$ and F5 fractiuons with peak ID's.

If the ether cleavage protocol worked, include that in the results too.

The discussion should include comments on what you found significzant and interesting in the sample wrt its environmental setting.  Also include some observations on your experience on doing this exercise.

We will devote the final class on Dec 9 to a discussion of the findings and, also,  ways to improve the class in future years.

All,

I am moving the lecture schedule back by 1 week to accoodate a section on biosignatures and life detection. Next Monday will be the lecture on chirality and Wednesday will be a lecture on 'generic' biosignatures.

We will meet in the E25-605 Conference room on Monday Sept 14th at 2pm.

The reading for week 1 is Echoes of Life by Gaines et al.  Details below.