My current research focuses on the role of the Southern Ocean during past intervals of climate change. I use geochemical tools to investigate two main topics: (1) the past variability of dust transport in the Southern Hemisphere and (2) past changes in Southern Ocean circulation.

1. The input of dust-borne Fe to the Southern Ocean can stimulate the primary production in the Southern Ocean, thus reducing atmospheric CO₂ concentrations. This process is an important feedback mechanism during past climate cycles. Yet, the exact links between origin, transport, composition and impact of dust on Southern Ocean primary productivity and climate are poorly constrained. I use a comprehensive geochemical toolbox and marine sediments as an archive of ancient dust deposition to study the influence of these processes on the climate history of the Earth.

2. The Southern Ocean is a key region for the overturning and mixing of water masses within the global ocean circulation system. As such, the Southern Ocean modulates the distribution of important properties such as heat, nutrients and CO₂ between different ocean basins as well as between surface and deep ocean. I use neodymium isotopes extracted from seawater-derived precipitates in the Southern Ocean to learn about past changes in this circulation system.