I am interested in the applications of stable isotope ratio measurements for bioarchaeology and low-temperature geochemistry.
I work in the development of novel isotopic techniques for application in archaeological contexts, including cutting-edge development work in hydrogen and calcium isotope ratios. Bone and other calcified tissues are influenced by an individual's diet and environment, and measurement of their stable isotope ratios can help understand life in the past.
Persistent and important archaeological questions, such as the extent of meat eating and dairy consumption have not been answered adequately with current techniques, so new method developments are key, as well as a more thorough understanding of current techniques such as nitrogen isotope ratios. In addition, I am interested in chemical preparation techniques for radiocarbon dating of bones and tree rings.
I have also worked on calcium isotope ratios for applications in low-temperature geochemistry, particularly in understanding calcium carbonate precipitates in the cave environment.
