Dr Lauren Rawlins

Profile

I am a Research Associate in glacial lake hazards in the School of Geography assisting with the UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship project ‘Glacial Lake Observatory for Flood Hazards impacted by Changing Climate’ (GLO-FHICC) led by Dr Scott Watson. Prior to this, I was a Teaching Fellow in the School of Geography, University of Leeds, teaching across the themes of Physical Geography and GIS on both the BSc Geography and MSc Geographical Information Systems degree programmes.

Prior to joining the University of Leeds in 2024, I completed a PhD in Environmental Geography (Glaciology) from the University of York where I focussed on examining evolving meltwater networks on the surface of the Greenland Ice Sheet using both remote sensing and field-based (UAV) techniques. I continue to have ongoing interests within the field of glacial hydrology, as well as teaching and outreach communication. 

Research interests

In my current research position, I provide GIS and field-based expertise to investigate lake development processes and flood hazards to enhance disaster preparedness and increase water security across High Mountain Asia. This involves the use and integration of geospatial datasets and field data (UAVs and bathymetry surveys) from High-Mountain Asia to provide open access glacial lake observations and monitoring. 

My research background primarily focusses on understanding surface meltwater transport and export on glaciers and ice sheets through the use of satellite imagery and UAV-based platforms. My PhD examined the evolution of surface meltwater drainage networks (rivers and lakes) on the Greenland Ice Sheet across a multitude of spatial and temporal scales. I continue to have interests in glacial hydrology as well as glacial hazards.

Currently, I am also engaged in interdiscplinary research collaborations at the intersection of art and glaciology with Dr Isabelle Gapp from the Department of Geography, University of Aberdeen. Leveraging historical art and my background in glaciology, this ongoing research seeks to uncover the environmental histories, characteristics and cultural identities of icy landscapes, as well as investigate whether such works serve as a valuable record of climatic and environmental change.

Qualifications

• PhD in Environmental Geography. University of York (2018-2023)
• MEnv in Environmental Geography. University of York (2013-2017)

Professional memberships

• Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy

Student education

I currently contribute to several modules within the BSc Geography and MSc Geographical Information Systems degree programmes through lectures, GIS-based practicals and as module convenor. I have a strong pedagogical interest in exploring how advanced tools and technologies (including field-based) can be developed and integrated into teaching to enhance the student learning experience.