Sofia Kjellman, MSc

What’s the work that you do?

I study how the Arctic climate has changed since the last ice age. With global warming, the Arctic is getting wetter. By studying precipitation changes during past warm periods, we can better understand the mechanisms controlling these changes. My PhD research focuses on precipitation seasonality on Svalbard, Arctic Norway, using biomarkers preserved in the bottom of lakes. I analyze the hydrogen isotopic ratios of ancient plant leaf waxes, which ultimately reflect the isotopic composition of precipitation, and therefore give us information about past climate.

What keeps you going?

My fascination with the Arctic! Research provides amazing opportunities to visit and learn more about these unique and vulnerable landscapes. I also find it fascinating that we can use chemical, biological, and physical signals preserved in geological archives (e.g., cores of mud from lakes) to better understand processes that have changed the Arctic in the past, today, and are likely to do so also in the future.

What’s your message to the world?

I want to encourage other early career researchers to stay curious and not being afraid of stepping out of their comfort zones. I believe in inclusivity, knowledge sharing and good communication. By working together, we can learn and do so much more!