Helena, please briefly introduce us to your background and profession?
- Currently, I am Assistant Head of the Department of Geology and Professor of Quaternary Geology with a specialization in Marine Geology—the simplified version is that I am a Professor of Marine Geology. In the new organization my role will be Assistant Head of Department, with a primary focus on Scientific Infrastructure.
As a marine scientist, I strive to learn more about ancient oceans and connect that knowledge to today’s environmental challenges. I am particularly interested in areas affected by oxygen deficiency, such as the Baltic Sea or fjords. In my research, I collect samples from the water column and sediment cores. The sediment core serve as environmental archives–the deeper you go, the further back in time you reach. I also analyze microfossils such as foraminifera using new methods, for example µCT and µXRF available at synchrotron facilities like MAX IV.
In addition, I collaborate with the Marint centrum in Simrishamn, where one exciting project involves placing artificial cod reefs in Hanö Bay, and another focuses on studying the effects of the 2023 oil spill.
As the new Assistant Head of Department with a focus on Scientific Infrastructure – what will be your main focus areas in the first year?
- I'm looking forward to working in the new organization, starting with an overview of our existing infrastructure and identifying the best ways to support it. We’ll have a wide range of exciting lab work in the new facilities.
What opportunities and challenges do you see for the new MGeo department?
- As for opportunities, it will take some time, but eventually we will gain more visibility, attract more students, and become an even more attractive partner in larger collaborations. We will also be recognised within the university as a unified group focused on environment, climate, and earth sciences. The challenge is that things have been a bit turbulent going through a reorganization. It is especially challenging because we are doing everything at once. But I believe things will settle, and I am hopeful that we will gain momentum moving forward.
What do you envision for the MGeo department in the longer term?
- For students—if you are interested in environmental and climate related issues in Sweden and beyond, Lund University should be your first choice. Internationally, we are highly ranked, and we aim to maintain and further develop this to attract international students. Last but not least, we aim to be an attractive employer. We need to make sure that anyone working here thrives, stays, and grows.
What feels most exciting about the new job?
- I look forward to getting to know everyone better! And also, understand how we can develop our collaboration. Together, we can build new partnerships and make the most of the incredible talent in our organization—and build something new and even greater.