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Researchers Capture Elusive Missing Step in Photosynthesis

May 5, 2023

Using SLAC’s X-ray laser, researchers have finally seen the process by which nature creates the oxygen we breathe. (Credit: Greg Stewart/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory)

After decades of effort, scientists have revealed atomic-scale details of the water splitting step of photosynthesis, the chemical process that generates the air we breathe. The latest work adds to our understanding of photosynthesis and will aid the development of fully renewable alternative energy sources.

Using Bacteria to Accelerate Carbon Dioxide Capture in Oceans

May 19, 2022

Peter Agbo. (Credit: Marilyn Sargent/Berkeley Lab)

Peter Agbo, a staff scientist in the Chemical Sciences Division, with a secondary appointment in the Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging (MBIB) Division, has proposed a novel method for direct ocean capture of carbon using microbes. Removing CO2 from the oceans will enable them to continue to do their job of absorbing excess CO2 from the atmosphere.

Chloro-phylling in the Answers to Big Questions

December 1, 2021

Photosystem II Mn-Ca reaction center

A team of scientists, including many in the Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging Division, uncovered new details about the reaction that powers photosynthesis. Understanding this reaction could lead to world-changing advances in technology, medicine, or energy––and also gives insight into how the enzyme photosystem II produces the oxygen we breathe. Their latest work was recently published in Nature Communications and two of the authors, Vittal Yachandra and Philipp Simon, spoke with Strategic Communications about that, shooting stuff with lasers, and why they chose this field of research.

Women @ the Lab Awards

March 31, 2021

Four Biosciences employees were selected by Berkeley Lab leadership and the Women Scientists and Engineers Council (WSEC) for recognition as part of the 2020 Women @ the Lab awards. The biennial program, now in its fourth year, spotlights women at the Lab for meritorious professional contributions, leadership, mentorship, and outreach.

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