ORCID: http://orcid.org/0000-0003-1844-274X
I teach atmospheric science and glaciology, while my research concentrates on computational methods in contemporary large scale ice flow physics.
I am a lead author of the BISICLES adaptive mesh ice sheet model
This module forms the essential foundation for any more advanced study of physical geography. It introduces the four main Earth systems: the atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere and geosphere. It provides a sound understanding of the processes within each system, and of the interactions between them. The atmosphere section deals with flows of energy and moisture and their role in controlling climate over both space and time. The hydrosphere section focuses on the concepts of the hydrological cycle and main processes associated with the water fluxes. The biosphere section deals mainly with flows of energy and nutrients between Earth systems. The geosphere section introduces topics like the origin of Earth, the concept of plate tectonics, describes the distribution of different rock types and processes occurring in geosphere. In addition main properties and functions of soil, formation of different soil types across the world and changes of climate in the past, current and the future, proxies of climate change are included.
This module investigates hazardous aspects of Earth¿s natural environment and how society relates to them. Introductory principles include the definition of natural hazard, disaster, risk and loss, and approaches to reducing risk and managing disasters. Major types of natural hazard are studied in order to understand how they operate, where, and how frequently they are likely to occur. Hazardous consequences are explored, as well as how society can respond to hazardous events. Key aspects include discussion of primary and secondary hazards, prediction, forecasting and monitoring of hazards, and understanding how their harmful effects can be minimised. Natural hazards considered during this module include volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, tsunamis, wildfires, landslides, extreme weather events, flooding, avalanches and Mega Hazards. Lecture material considers general principles as well as case studies. Practical classes reinforce concepts learned in lectures.
The module is concerned with gaining experience of the geographical skills needed to explore the physical and human geography environments around us. We use our considerable local and regional geographical assets to explore multiple themes in human and physical geography. The general aims are to observe, analyse and achieve an understanding of the varied geographical landscape and inherent features in Swansea and South Wales. The module is run via up to 10 'pick and mix' field days, with a human, physical or human and physical geography theme. Students will be required to chose 4 of the field days to attend. Students taking this module will gain experience in research design, methodologies, data analysis and presentation methods. Students taking this field course can choose to focus on either the physical or human geography elements or the mixed human/physical days, or a mix of all three. Maximum flexibility is afforded by the range of topics we can explore in the local and regional area. Each day will be accompanied by online and lecture materials. The days will be run at various times in the Semester and students will book on to their chosen field days independently. The theme of the trip is "South Wales: Environments, Landscapes, Heritage and Community".
This core 20 credit module introduces the variety of approaches to Human and Physical Geography that exist, providing an overview of the key methods used in the discipline. These paradigms will be introduced and then you are given the opportunity to 'think through' what kinds of methods chime with these geographical approaches. The module introduces key data methods and their theoretical roots, with an opportunity to 'practice' these key methods extended workshops - both desk based and in the field.
The dissertation is an original, substantive and independent research project in an aspect of Geography. It is typically based on approximately 20 - 25 days of primary research and several weeks of analysis and write-up. The end result must be less than 7,500 words of text. The dissertation offers you the chance to follow your personal interests and to demonstrate your capabilities as a Geographer. During the course of your dissertation you will be supported by a student-led discussion group and a staff supervisor, and you will also provide constructive criticism to fellow students undertaking related research projects, learning from their research problems and subsequent solutions. This support and supervision is delivered through the 'Dissertation Support' module, which is a co-requisite.
This module will provide you with the scientific basis to understand the physical behaviour of glacier ice at spatial scales ranging from individual ice crystals to continental-scale glaciation. The module core topics will include glacier mass balance, transformation of snow to ice, glacier hydrology, dynamics, ice crystal structure and deformation, glacier sliding, deformation of glacial sediments, glacier flow instabilities and glacier surging. We will then introduce example topics of current research interest. You will have the opportunity to work in a small group on a guided research project. The module is assessed through an individual paper critique and ¿take-home¿ examination, as well as group presentation of your research project results at a poster-based mini-conference, and as a report. The research project work will normally be assigned a group mark, however, individual student¿s marks may be moderated based on self and peer assessment.
This module provides a comprehensive introduction to meteorology, weather, and atmospheric science. The course covers both applied meteorology and the underlying physical concepts. An excellent mathematical qualification (GCSE level) and physical background is a pre-requisite for a student attending this module. The module focuses on short timescales ranging from daily to seasonal. Meteorology is introduced as the study of weather and related phenomena. Methods of measuring the atmosphere and the interpretation of these measurements are fundamental to the subject, as are classifications and qualitative descriptions of atmospheric phenomena. The fundamental physics of the atmosphere (motion, moisture and radiation) are discussed. The central part of the module focuses on weather systems, both in the tropics and the mid-latitudes. Finally, the module covers small-scale phenomena (e.g. tornadoes), and boundary-layer processes. Weather forecasting is a theme which runs through the module, as much of the research in meteorology has been motivated by the desire to predict the weather. The relationship between measurements, models and forecasts is explored.
