Mantle evolution and the origin of Earth's atmosphere

This project aims to investigate Earths early evolution and the origin of our atmosphere. It will utilise state-of-the-art instrumentation to measure noble gas and tungsten isotopes in unique volcanic glasses that record the composition of the Earths mantle. These novel measurements are expected to clarify the relationship between the formation of Earths atmosphere, mantle and core, and to generate new knowledge about convective currents in the modern mantle. These outcomes are important because: i) mantle convection drives the movement of tectonic plates, responsible for volcanic eruptions and earthquakes; and ii) the atmosphere makes life on Earth possible.