I specialise in the development and application of geochemical proxies, in particular the boron isotope-pH proxy (a tool for reconstructing past atmospheric CO2 concentrations). Primarily my focus is on the application of these proxies in planktic foraminifera during past periods of climate change. Intrinsically linked to this is a requirement to understand the biology and life processes of planktic foraminifera, both living and extinct, to quantify potential ‘vital effects’ that may interfere with recorded environmental proxy signals.
My research at Yale is focused on the Latest Cretaceous, K-Pg boundary and Palaeocene, a period spanning profound climatic instability and carbon cycle fluctuations. Understanding the climatic and biotic effects of changes in atmospheric CO2 levels during this period could provide valuable insights into the sensitivity of the earth system to pulses in greenhouse gas concentrations.
