Terrestrial Paleoclimate
Terrestrial Paleoclimate Group
Understanding interactions between the biosphere, atmosphere and lithosphere of the Cenozoic
Our research is focused on the terrestrial paleoclimate of Earth. Our efforts are to understand the links and feedbacks between the ancient biosphere, atmosphere, and lithosphere with specific emphasis on the Cenozoic time period. We use a combination of stable isotope measurements, coupled with field studies, and numerical models in order to build an understanding of the Earth’s past climate. We are particularly focused on studying past climates to understand how the Earth’s climate may behave in the future as greenhouse gases increase in our atmosphere. Field sites include western North America, north-central Asia, and Europe. Our laboratory work is currently directed toward developing triple oxygen isotopes as a paleoclimate proxy as well as other applications (e.g. pharmaceuticals).
News
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Detecting falsified and substandard drug products
Isotopic analysis is a powerful tool for authorities and companies to detect falsified and substandard drug products and protect against patent infringement. -
When the Atlantic met the Alps
Research from carbonates reveal Central Europe climate has long been linked to the North Atlantic Ocean & warm intervals bring large-scale change in atmospheric circulation. -
Extinct lakes of the American desert west
The vestiges of lakes long extinct dot the landscape of the American desert. These fossilized landforms provide clues of how dynamic climate has been over the past million years.