Dr. Maria Gehrels
Physical Geography Research Technician

Profile

Biography

My background is in Earth Science and Physical Geography and I specialise in techniques used to investigate past (Quaternary) environments. I was appointed as a technician in the Department of Environment and Geography in October 2013 and my main role is to provide field and laboratory assistance to support the physical geography research group. Prior to moving up to Yorkshire, I worked as a research assistant, postdoctoral researcher and research technician at the School of Geography at Plymouth University. My Bachelor’s Degree is in Earth Science and I have a Masters of Research degree in Global Environmental Change (both from Plymouth). My PhD research was also undertaken at Plymouth University and involved investigating the record of volcanic ash-fall events recorded in peat and lake sites in northern New Zealand. I take an active interest in ongoing research in my subject area and continue to be involved in publishing research findings.  

My main responsibilities include:

• Providing field and laboratory assistance to support the  physical geography research group
• Preparation of samples for palaeo-ecological analysis (diatoms, pollen, foraminifera, testate amoebae)
• Assisting with the installation, operation and maintenance of physical geography field equipment
• Responsible for the storage and archiving of physical geography research samples
• Assisting and supporting project students (undergraduate and postgraduate) in the course of their laboratory and fieldwork
• Training students in the preparation and identification of microfossils
• Supporting laboratory practical sessions
• Maintaining a clean, safe and effective working environment for physical geography research
• Primary contact in the teaching laboratory for geography staff and students