Understanding the earliest stages of planetary evolution

Planetary science is a field that has always captivated me, as it not only gives us insight into the Earth's evolution and history, but also into our solar system and the universe. Through undergraduate courses and my MSci project, I have become particularly interested in the study of extra-terrestrial material and its potential to answer important research questions, which ultimately contributes to our growing understanding of the early solar system.



I have recently graduated from Imperial College London with an MSci Geology degree. In my MSci dissertation project, supervised by Dr. Matt Genge, I investigated the stratigraphic variation of micrometeorites and its implications on palaeoenvironment, focusing on the variety and abundance of cosmic spherules recovered from two chalk horizons at Lulworth Cove. Throughout the project, I have had the opportunity to gain experience designing and applying an experimental methodology, as well as build up experience in micromanipulation skills and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and learn crucial background knowledge about extraterrestrial materials and how to work with them. More recently, I have also worked as a part-time research assistant with Dr. Genge's research group, leading a project which uses an experimental approach to investigate the efficiency of different types and stages of fossil micrometeorite recovery methods, and have also contributed to ongoing investigations in understanding the characteristics of micrometeorite flux at the K/Pg boundary - results of which I plan to prepare as a paper, in collaboration with fellow MSci and PhD students of the research group. From conducting sample collection fieldwork to laboratory skills and writing up the project, my experiences of the research process have given me the necessary foundation in knowledge and skills required for PhD study in planetary sciences.



I am enthusiastic to develop my interest and experience in meteoritics further by becoming part of the ongoing research effort in this field. I believe that a PhD project would be integral in equipping myself with the knowledge and skills necessary for a future career in research. This studentship is particularly attractive to me as it provides a valuable opportunity to study planetary evolution from a unique mineralogical/geochemical approach. I am excited by the prospect of applying geochemical analysis techniques to better understand the formation history of achondrites, including impact mixing, and its implications for the evolution of their parent bodies. This work will build on the practical experience I have gained during my MSci project, including small particle manipulation, handling of extraterrestrial materials, optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Exposure to the literature has also given me a unique understanding of the tools used in extraterrestrial material analysis that I hope to apply practically, as well as important background knowledge to meteoritic research. Furthermore, the expertise of the supervisory team - who have been spoken highly of by my MSci supervisor - reflected in their career record, gives me great confidence in the research training offered by this studentship. Furthermore, studying at the Open University offers important training and seminar presentation opportunities, such as the SPS weekly seminars and journal club talks, which would equip me with vital research and communication skills that can be used to make a societal impact.