Cohen Geochemistry
Cohen Geochemistry is a world-leading, multidisciplinary research group investigating the chemical processes that govern Earth’s surface environments; from molecular-scale interactions to global biogeochemical cycles, and from seconds to millions of years.
Our research integrates laboratory experimentation, chemical and isotopic analysis, and geochemical modelling to understand how Earth’s systems function and respond to environmental change. We work across modern environments and deep time, addressing fundamental questions including:
- How minerals interact with and regulate the chemistry of Earth surface environments
- The functioning of the critical zone that sustains ecosystems, agriculture and water resources
- Element cycling in marine and terrestrial systems, including contaminant behaviour and environmental change
- The co-evolution of Earth’s surface environment and life, including major transitions such as the rise of multicellular organisms and mass extinctions
Our work is supported by a dedicated laboratory suite with advanced analytical capabilities, enabling high-impact, cross-disciplinary research. We are an internationally connected group, regularly hosting visiting researchers and collaborating with partners across academia and industry.
We provide a collaborative and supportive research environment, with opportunities for postgraduate researchers, postdoctoral scientists and independent research fellows. We actively support fellowship applications and welcome researchers looking to develop their own research programmes within our facilities and intellectual community.
Our legacy
The group is named after Professor Julius Berend Cohen, whose pioneering experimental work in Leeds helped shape early environmental regulation, a legacy that continues to inspire our research today.
Facilities and expertise
We offer specialist capabilities in:
- Hydrogeochemistry
- Mineral synthesis and reaction experiments
- Mineral–water interface processes
- Sequential extraction techniques
- Geomicrobiology
- Isotope geochemistry
- Trace element analysis of environmental samples
Further details are available in our facilities directory.
Explore Cohen Geochemistry
View our research group members, projects and recent publications.
PhD and fellowship opportunities
We welcome applications from prospective postgraduate researchers and independent fellows interested in joining our research community.
Contact us
To discuss research opportunities or potential collaborations, please contact the Research Group Leader, Professor Ben Mills.