Earth’s Most Resilient Life, Our Greatest Hope: Exploring Unusual Microbes to Solve Humanity’s Biggest Challenges

This special town talk, presented by Braden Tierney, cofounder and executive director of the Two Frontiers Project extends the season and will be held in town at the Telluride Innovation Center. From hydrothermal vents and volcanic seeps to alpine soils and mine drainage right here in Telluride, Earth’s most unusual ecosystems are home to microscopic life with extraordinary abilities. In this talk, Tierney will share stories from the field and the lab through their team at the Two Frontiers Project. They explore the planet’s microbial diversity in search of “microbial superpowers” that could help tackle pollution, support agriculture, protect ecosystems, and improve human health. With an emphasis on projects ongoing in Colorado, we’ll explore how these invisible ecosystems work, why they matter for everyday life, and how citizen scientists and students can help map this hidden world. The talk is free and open to the public but RSVP is required. RSVP HERE Thanks to our title sponsor Alpine Bank.