Piper Leigh Gilbert

Profile

I am a PhD student in the Earth Surface Science Institute (ESSI) at the University of Leeds, funded by the NERC Yorkshire Environmental Science Doctoral Training Network (YES-DTN).

Before starting my PhD, I completed my undergraduate degree in Chemistry at Cardiff University. I then went on to complete my Master's in Environmental Science at the University of Leeds. During my studies, I became increasingly interested in the chemical, biological, and environmental processes that shape the Earth system, leading me to pursue research in Biogeochemistry.

During my Master’s, I completed my dissertation project in Biogeochemistry, titled ‘Modelling Mineralogical Controls on Carbon Burial in the Earth System’, where I worked to incorporate a mineralogical control on carbon burial into an existing Earth System Model.

Research interests

My PhD research focuses on understanding controls on organic carbon burial in soils and sediments. I am particularly interested mineral-organic interactions and how this influences the long-term storage of carbon in the environment. By improving our understanding of natural carbon preservation mechanisms, I hope to contribute to the development of strategies that enhance carbon sequestration and support efforts to tackle climate change.

Qualifications

• BSc Chemistry - Cardiff University
• MSc Environmental Science - University of Leeds