Personal profile

Research interests

My research focuses on the application of large benthic and planktic foraminifera trace element and stable isotope geochemistry to palaeoclimate reconstruction. Specifically, I aim to examine the response of the tropical oceans to Paleogene climatic variability by producing accurate multi-proxy (sub)tropical sea surface temperature estimates.

Supervised by Dr. Wolfgang Müller, much of my work so far has focused on large benthic foraminifera because they may live for several years and therefore provide a continuous seasonal proxy record. In particular, I utilise laser-ablation mass spectrometry as a microanalytical technique capable of resolving (sub)seasonal ambient environmental information in large benthic foraminifera, and as a technique capable of multi-proxy reconstruction and preservation characterisation in large benthic and planktic foraminifera.

I am particularly interested in climate reconstruction of the early-mid Paleogene, focusing on, but not limited to, the Eocene and Eocene-Oligocene transition. My current project involves a detailed investigation of the effect of elevated atmospheric CO2 and rapid climate shifts on (sub)tropical ocean stability, as well as the reconstruction of a long-term, high-resolution seasonally-resolved trend in Eocene climate.

Expertise related to UN Sustainable Development Goals

In 2015, UN member states agreed to 17 global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all. This person’s work contributes towards the following SDG(s):

  • SDG 13 - Climate Action