Researching Earth’s
past magnetic field.

Rocks preserve evidence of a magnetic field that existed millions, sometimes billions, of years ago.

I use palaeomagnetic methods to study the field recorded in rocks. Much of my work focuses on palaeointensity: estimating how strong that field was when the rocks formed.

I have published field-strength measurements from the Cryogenian, early Cambrian, Paleoproterozoic and Kiaman Superchron. I have also worked on measurement methods and the PINT global database of palaeointensity results.

• Experimental methods: Shaw-type, Thellier-type and high-frequency microwave approaches to absolute palaeointensity.
• Quantitative analysis: statistical evaluation, uncertainty assessment, Monte Carlo methods, benchmarking and scientific visualisation.
• Combining datasets: matching records from different sources and correcting incompatible identifiers, text encodings and coordinate conventions.
• Checking results: testing selection rules against data for which the original field is known, and recording the outcome for each specimen.

I have led research projects lasting several years and worked with international collaborators on experiments, computer modelling and field sampling.

The work has included arranging fieldwork, equipment and travel; writing and documenting analysis scripts; and preparing papers, figures and conference presentations.