Ros Rickaby

Throughout her research career, Ros has aimed to bring life to geochemistry! Ros has pioneered an interdisciplinary blend of biology and chemistry to resolve questions of past climates, evolution, and the future of the phytoplankton. Ros’ distinctive approach is to read geological history from signals of adaptation within genes of modern organisms, which play out in the evolving affinity and kinetics of the expressed enzymes, or isotopic signals of adaptation that leave a footprint in fossils and biomolecules. Ros has authored over 90 papers and co-authored a book “Evolution’s Destiny: Co-evolving chemistry of the environment and life”.
Ros has recently taken up the role of Chair of Geology, Department of Earth Sciences, University of Oxford, having been Professor of Biogeochemistry since 2002, on the dark side (of blue!) as well as mum to two boys. She received her PhD with Harry Elderfield from Cambridge University in 1995 and studied at Harvard for her post-doc with Dan Schrag. In 2008 Ros received the European Geosciences Union’s Outstanding Young Scientist award, in 2010 the American Geophysical Union’s James B. Macelwane Award for significant contributions to the geophysical sciences by an outstanding young scientist and most recently, in 2016, the Lyell Award of the Geological Society of London. She currently holds a Wolfson Research Merit Award from the Royal Society.
Latest News
National Marine Equipment Pool: Autumn 2023 call (Round 4) for applications
Members of the UK marine science community are invited to submit applications for items of equipment to be considered for addition to the National Marine Equipment Pool (NMEP). Full details of the application process are available on the Marine Facilities Advisory Board (MFAB) website and questions to Jackie Pearson, MFAB Secretary, are welcome. The closing date for applications is Friday 15 December 2023.
Measurement Systems for 21st Century Oceanography
There is an imperative to measure the ocean in greater detail if we are to chart a sustainable future on this planet. The Net-Zero Oceanographic Capability Scoping Study (2021), commissioned by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), therefore undertook a detailed review of the sensor systems and networks that will be needed to meet anticipated marine science priorities. The Future Marine Research Infrastructure (FMRI) Programme is continuing this engagement to shape NERC’s strategic investment in measurement technologies that enable new and different science.
Exciting opportunity – MEDIN Chair
The Marine Environmental Data and Information Network (MEDIN) is seeking an outstanding new Chair, who can bring strategic leadership, enthusiasm and independent thinking to our Sponsors’ Board and Executive Team at a significant time in our development. Further information about the role can be found here.