Emma Martin-Roberts

This PhD was hosted in the School of GeoSciences, University of Edinburgh in partnership with the Scottish Universities Environmental Research Centre (SUERC) and the Faculty of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics, Open University. 

Perhaps the most valuable skill I gained was to know when to take time out for myself. It is easy to let the pressures of getting it done take over, so having a good support network around you is invaluable.

What was your research about?

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I investigated the geochemistry of the oldest rocks in Iceland which are found in Vestfirdir in the northwest of the Island. These rocks were formed 16 million years ago, and we know relatively little about them compared with much younger Icelandic rocks. Using these, I was able to identify distinct isotopic characteristics and different sources of magma that helped form them. In addition to this, using olivine minerals within the rocks, this helped me to measure rare gases from deep in the earth and link these to the temperatures that they were formed before they were erupted.

What made you apply to the E³ DTP?

The project itself was largely a factor for applying and after speaking to the supervisors, knowing that it had the potential to go in a number of directions was appealing to me. I was also drawn to the fact that the project was primarily based outside of the University at a partner institution (Scottish Universities Environmental Research Centre), giving me valuable experience in a research laboratory setting. Additionally, to be involved in a DTP cohort where I could gain valuable training skills and be surrounded by exciting scientific research was also appealing.

What did you find challenging in your PhD?

After completing my PhD and looking back on what I have done and achieved, it is quite easy to say that it was what I expected of a PhD. However, during the programme there were some times when I couldn’t see that so clearly, but with supportive supervisors and fellow PhD students around me it became easier to navigate. A challenge for me was that my fieldwork occurred in my final year of study as there was already a large sample-set collected and available to analyse. This made the analysis and interpretation of new additional samples with time constraints quite difficult towards the end but rewarding when it worked out.

Looking back, what would you have done differently?

I would have gone into my field area at the start of the study and then also towards the end to help me put things into perspective. I also would have made more of an effort to learn how to code!

I enjoyed the fact that I was part of the DTP cohort at the University, but also part of the SUERC activities. I was able to be part of the exciting research taking place in both departments and felt like I had two PhD families.

Which aspects of your PhD did you enjoy the most?

I enjoyed the fact that I was part of the DTP cohort at the University, but also part of the SUERC activities. I was able to be part of the exciting research taking place in both departments and felt like I had two PhD families. I also enjoyed the interaction with the supervisors and research and reading groups.

Which skills did you gain during your PhD?

I gained and developed a lot of project management skills during my PhD as there were so many different aspects to my project happening at the same time. This helped me to work both independently and in collaboration with others and with different departments. I also gained a number of technical skills in order to get my analysis done, including the use of laboratories, mass-spectrometers and mastering the never-ending calculations of double-spike lead isotopes!

Perhaps the most valuable skill I gained was to know when to take time out for myself. It is easy to let the pressures of getting it done take over, so having a good support network around you is invaluable.

The networking opportunities I have had have also been invaluable to furthering my career. 

What would not have been possible without the DTP?

The DTP has enabled me to undertake training and courses that in ordinary circumstances, I would not have necessarily had the time, money or motivation to do. It has also enabled me to undertake valuable remote fieldwork and attend international conferences to present my work. The networking opportunities I have had have also been invaluable to furthering my career. 

How has your PhD helped you to decide on a career path?

Before I started my PhD, I worked in the oil and gas industry and was industry driven. However, I always knew that I wanted to complete a PhD. During this time, it has subsequently helped me to identify an interest in an academic research setting and has paved the way towards future research roles.

And now?

I have started my first post-doctoral position at the University of Edinburgh, so I am not straying very far. I am studying the fate of CO₂ after injection into the subsurface and how different noble gases can be used to help identify fugitive CO₂ migration. I applied for the position in the final few months of my PhD and the work started while I was waiting for my Viva so it was quite a hectic time but definitely worth it!