Dr. Gerko van der Wel

I am investigating the stable water isotope signal in ice cores to reconstruct past climate. This reconstruction is based on the diffusion of the signal during firnification of snow to ice. I have developed numerical models to simulate this process and to assess the accuracy and precision of the reconstruction method. I have also coupled a laser spectrometer to an existing CFA (continuous flow analysis) system to measure the water isotope signal in ice cores in high resolution.

I have studied the diffusion of stable water isotopes in firn in order to reconstruct past climate. I have designed and performed experiments in a controlled lab environment and in the field to quantify the diffusion rate in firn. I have also created a numerical model to simulate the effects of diffusion and melt to the isotope signal in the firn and compared the results with actual ice core records.

Experimental Physics