Volume 28 of Reviews in Mineralogy provides some of the necessary tools for the researcher interested in this area of interdisciplinary research The chapters present several of the important problems concepts and approaches from both the geological and biological ends of the spectrum These two extremes are partially integrated throughout the book by cross referencing between chapters Chapter 1 also presents a general introduction into the ways in which these two areas overlap However many of the areas ripe for the interdisciplinarian will become obvious after reading the various chapters The final chapter of this book discusses some of the regulatory aspects of minerals Ultimately the regulatory arena is where this type of interdisciplinary approach can make an impact and hopefully better communication between all parties will accomplish this goal A glossary is included at the end of this book because the complexity of scientific terms in the two fields can thwart even the most enthusiastic of individuals This volume represents the proceedings of a course by the same title held at Harbor House Resort and Conference Center on Nantucket Island off the coast of Massachusetts October 22 24 1993