Overview

My thesis research looked at the characteristics of pyrogenic carbon (charcoal) produced in UK peatland fires, as well as their degradation trends when exposed to environmental conditions. Pyrogenic carbon has been shown to have the potential to act as a long term terrestrial carbon store. Whilst extensive wildfire and pyrogenic carbon research has been carried out in commonly considered fire-prone environments, the UK has recieved relatively limited research attention particularly with regards to the pyrogenic carbon produced in these settings. Therefore, my thesis research aimed to look at the characteristics of pyrogenic carbon in these settings and gain greater understanding of possible carbon storage or carbon fluxes in these settings. 

I have also worked on reports evaluating methods to increase soil carbon stocks in UK agricultural settings (and mitigation efforts more broadly), where I reviewed meta analyses on a range of sequestration techniquese including biochar soil amendments. 

I am strongly interested in the effects of different land management practices on ecosystem processes and the potential to enhance carbon storage, as well as achieving wider benefits. 

Qualifications

• 2016 – 2020 University of Manchester

PhD Physical Geography. Confirmed 2021. Pyrogenic carbon characteristics and short-term degradation trends in UK peatland catchments.

• 2013 – 2014 University of Manchester:

MSc Environmental Monitoring Modelling and Reconstruction. Dissertation (highly commended): Post fire charcoal degradation in UK upland environments. 

• 2011 – 2013 University of Manchester:

BSc (Hons) Geography. Dissertation: Mid-Holocene Lake District landscape instability and vegetation change, Keskadal