Abigail Buchan

Profile

I am a second year PhD student based in the School of Earth and Environment, sitting within the Institute of Climate and Atmospheric Science (ICAS) and the Earth Surface Science Institute (ESSI). My PhD research looks at the Pliocene climate to help us improve our understanding of the climate system. Specifically, I am looking at moving beyond the mean state climate towards higher frequency variability and extremes.  I am funded by the NERC Panorama DTP.

I am currently one of the PGR representatives for the Institute of Climate and Atmospheric Science (ICAS)

In 2023 I graduated from the University of Edinburgh with a MEarthPhys in Geophysics and Meteorology.

 

 

Research interests

My research focuses on the climate of the Pliocene Epoch (~3 million years ago). I am investigating the driving factors of changes to the jet stream during the mid-Piacenzian Warm Period and how this impacts extreme events.

Teaching

I have demonstrated on an atmospheric observation skills field course, supporting students in weather forecasting and monitoring activities.

Presentations

2024

• US Geological Survey visit – Causes of Pliocene warmth, and the future of Pliocene climate studies (co-authored talk)
• Climate Evolution from early Eocene to mid-Pliocene – Moving beyond the mean state: Jet stream variability in the Pliocene (talk)
• NERC Panorama DTP PGR confrance – Climate extremes in a warmer world: what can the Pliocene tell us?. Awared runner up for best poster (poster)

Qualifications

• MEarthPhys Geophysics and Meteorology | University of Edinburgh (Graduated 2023)

Research groups and institutes

• Earth Surface Science Institute
• Institute for Climate and Atmospheric Science
• Palaeo@Leeds