Professor Martin Palmer BSc, PhD

Professor of Geochemistry

Professor Martin Palmer joined the School of Ocean and Earth Science in September 2000 as Professor of Geochemistry. Since this time he has been Head of the Geochemistry research group in Ocean and Earth Science.

Having come from a chemistry background, Martin's research interests are in applying fundamental chemical principles to understanding Earth system processes. In over three decades of interdisciplinary research he has applied this principle to studies of volcanism in collisional and subduction zones, submarine and subaerial geothermal activity, ore deposits, marine sedimentary processes, river water chemistry, bio mineralisation, sensor development and the impact of subaerial volcanism on the oceans.

He also has a broad range of research interests outside of Earth Science that includes the application of geochemical techniques to archaeological studies, the sources and impacts of dust in human health, the chemistry of landfill leachates, and the role of metals in the human body released from prosthetic implants.

This research has resulted in over 150 publications in the peer-reviewed literature and led to him being recognized as a Highly Cited Scientist in 2004. He was also made a Fellow of the Geochemical Society and the European Association of Geochemistry in 2014 – an award made to “outstanding scientists who have made major contributions to the field of geochemistry”.

At various times, Martin has served as Head of Education in Ocean and Earth Science and Associate Dean of Education in the Faculty of Engineering, Science and Mathematics. He has also served as Director of Research in Ocean and Earth Science.