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Research group

Geochemistry

lava flowing down an erupting volcano

We use advanced facilities to perform the precise and accurate analysis of the chemical and isotopic composition of Earth materials.

Part of Ocean and earth science

lava flowing down an erupting volcano

Our analyses of rocks, waters, biominerals, sediments, ocean particles and hydrothermal fluids are used to provide novel insights into a wide range of problems. These range from reconstructing past climates to tackling pressing issues like carbon capture and storage and sourcing metals critical for the green energy revolution.

Scuba diver taking coral samples

About our research

Learn about the 5 research themes we focus on.

People talking about rock specimens

People

Learn about our academic experts, from their research interests to their contact details.

Sr zonation in a fish otolith (ear bone)

Research projects

Find out more about our research into greenhouse gas removal, climate change, volcanology and others.

Researcher pipetting in a lab while two researchers talk in the background

Our facilities

Our world-class geochemical facilities enable the chemical and isotopic analysis of a wide range of natural and anthropogenic materials.

Research vessel JOIDES Resolution out at sea

Publications

Browse our publications catalogue to learn about our research.

crew waving on the bridge of a research vessel

Work with us

Whether you're interested in collaborating on research, or doing a PhD, find out how to get in touch.

Professor Gavin Foster

Our research spans the Earth and Environmental Sciences from reconstructing past climate change to environmental radioactivity. All this work is firmly rooted in the precise and accurate geochemical and isotopic analysis of natural and synthetic materials.

Professor Gavin Foster

Professor of Isotope Geochemistry

View all our people

Removing carbon from the atmosphere

Environment, sustainability and clean growth

A Southampton geochemist is carrying out research to speed up the removal of greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. It is receiving an explosion of international interest in the global bid to reduce carbon dioxide (CO₂ ) in the atmosphere and reach net zero.

Related research institutes, centres and groups

eruption of Erta Ale volcano in Ethopia

Geology and Geophysics

We research a wide range of societally impactful areas of geology and geophysics for a sustainable future. The latest facilities and technology development support our activities.

satellite image of the Barents Sea

Marine Biogeochemistry

We research the biogeochemistry of marine systems, both in the open ocean and in shelf seas. We take on societal and global environmental issues.

Fish on the ocean bed

Marine Biology and Ecology

We focus on understanding the effects of environmental change and human activities on marine ecosystems and biodiversity from the coast to the deep-sea.

International Ocean Discovery Program drill ship, JOIDES Resolution

Palaeoceanography and Palaeoclimate

We work all around the world to understand how Earth's climate system works naturally. We use this to predict the ways in which it will respond to human-driven change in the future.

A ship surrouded by ice next to a small vassel.

Physical Oceanography

The research group explores patterns of change and variability in satellite and in-situ measurements of surface temperature, sea level and productivity.

Connect with us

Enquiries

If you'd like to work with us or use our facilities contact Professor Gavin Foster.

g.l.foster@soton.ac.uk