Profile

Prof. Curtis Suttle
Affiliation
The University of British ColumbiaAcademy or College
Academy of ScienceYear Elected
2008Areas of Interest
Aquatic Viruses, Marine Microbiology, Microbial Diversity
Long Citation (for publication and press release)
Professor Suttle has changed our understanding of biological oceanographic processes by being among the first to recognize the abundance of viruses in seawater (~50 million per ml) and their importance as major agents of mortality and drivers of global biogeochemical cycles. He has revealed the enormous diversity of viruses in the sea, and in the process has discovered several previously unknown types. His work has influenced thinking in disciplines ranging from biological oceanography, through microbial diversity to virology. His work continues to break new ground and redefine the field of environmental virology.
Short Citation (to be read at the Induction Ceremony)
Professor Suttle has changed our understanding of biological oceanographic processes by being among the first to recognize the abundance of viruses in seawater and their importance as major agents of mortality and drivers of global biogeochemical cycles. His work has influenced thinking in disciplines ranging from biological oceanography, through microbial diversity to virology and continues to break new ground.