I’m an organic geochemist that studies how the various “lifestyles” of environmental microorganisms are recorded in their lipid membranes. These lipid signatures (a.k.a biomarkers) can be used to interpret climatic conditions in both modern and paleo ecosystems. At the University of Bristol, I work on the research grant team “CERES” (Climate, Energy and Carbon in Ancient Earth Systems). CERES is focused around carbon in peatlands, and I investigate how lipid biomarkers can inform us about peatland microbial communities and processes.