Prosser is a
microbial ecologist who has made significant contributions to our understanding of the diversity and
ecosystem function of
microorganisms in natural environments. A major focus of his research has been the ecology of
soil nitrifying bacteria and
archaea, which significantly reduce the efficiency of
nitrogen fertilisers and generate
greenhouse gases. His research has determined links between the remarkably high diversity of
soil ammonia oxidisers and their ecosystem function and he has demonstrated
niche specialisation and differentiation in bacterial and archaeal ammonia oxidisers. Prosser's research exploits laboratory experimental systems to test ecological concepts and he has developed
molecular biology techniques for characterisation of the diversity and activities of complex communities of microorganisms, most of which cannot be cultivated. ==Awards and honours==