Analysis of Nucleic Acids from Difficult Media: Method Optimization for Bentonite Clays and Rock Cores Associated with Deep Geological Repositories for Nuclear Waste

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Nuclear energy is an important component of carbon-free energy production in Canada. Although nuclear energy does not emit greenhouse gases, it does produce "used nuclear fuel", a hazardous waste that is highly radioactive and requires careful management to protect people and the environment. International consensus has determined that a deep geological repository is the safest and most effective means of managing used nuclear fuel. The Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) is siting and designing a deep geological repository for all of Canada's used nuclear fuel. The proposed NSERC CRD research will develop molecular and bioinformatic tools for characterization of microorganisms, and their encoded functions, in a deep geological repository to better predict and communicate how their metabolic activity may impact the geochemical environment in the long-term. The proposed research will involve benchmarking metagenomic and metatranscriptomic methods, and associated bioinformatic analyses, with the specific objectives of (1) comparing 16S rRNA gene functional predictions to metagenomic and metatranscriptomic data to identify best practices for analyzing large numbers of samples affordably and reliably for encoded microbial processes, and (2) developing software applications for metagenome analysis and genome to cell visualizations, ultimately for communicating the functional potential of subsurface microbial genomes more effectively and in an automated way. The insights developed in this research will provide NWMO with tools required to inform Canadian DGR design and site characterization by developing appropriate genomic methodologies. In addition, the methods developed to assess microbial communities in low biomass samples will further expand our understanding of the limits, capability, and survival of subsurface life on Earth. This proposal will also train HQP in expertise relevant to ongoing implementation and improvement of scientific knowledge to support and improve Canada's energy and environmental sectors.