About

I am a researcher in the evolution of early vertebrate sensory systems in the School of Geosciences, University of Edinburgh.

In my research, I specialise in using fossil fish as a means to study how sensory systems have evolved at key stages in vertebrate history, primarily, the water-to-land transition. From this I look for patterns that can be used as analogues to artificial sensory systems.

Modern organisms are important to use as modern analogues for extinct animals and also for calibrating measurements and models in fossils. Furthermore, the techniques used to study the response of fossil organisms to changing environment and climate are directly applicable to modern organisms and our current changing world.

Besides my research, I thoroughly enjoy mountaineering, fell running, mountain marathons, sea kayaking and open-water swimming.