Constant Philippe

Biography

Philippe Constant obtained his B.Sc. in biological sciences (specialization in microbiology and immunology) from the Université de Montréal (2003) and his Ph.D. in biology from INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier (2008). After a post-doctoral thesis in biogeochemistry at the Max-Planck Institute for Terrestrial Mikrobiology (2008-2011), he joined the faculty of the INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier Center in August 2011.

Research Interest

The biogeochemical cycle of trace gases contributing directly or indirectly to the terrestrial radiative balance is the central theme of Philippe Constant's research. His work aims, among other things, to identify the microorganisms modulating the atmospheric balance of trace gases and to predict the impact of global change on their biogeochemical functions. Microorganisms with the ability to oxidize trace gases in the atmosphere have metabolic pathways that have evolved by incorporating enzymes that demonstrate an extremely high affinity for their substrate. In some bacteria, tracer gas capture would provide an alternative energy source for the survival or production of secondary metabolites. What are the trace-oxidizing microorganisms? What are the environmental factors that modulate their distribution and activity? Will micro-organisms retain their ability to offset anthropogenic trace gas emissions? Could biogeochemical functions be preserved or stimulated by implementing land and environmental management strategies? Could trace gases be exploited to improve the production efficiency of secondary metabolites, biodegradation and other bioprocesses?