Dr. Esther Sumner

Associate Professor

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Biography

Esther's research focuses on understanding the dynamics of seafloor sediment avalanches. She is interested in modern systems, specifically in understanding how to mitigate the hazards posed by these avalanches on seafloor infrastructure and quantifying the role of avalanches in transporting sediments, nutrients, and pollutants from land to the deep sea, as well as understanding their implications for seafloor ecosystems. In addition, she explores ancient systems to comprehend how avalanches can be used to reconstruct past tectonic and climatic histories. Her research combines direct monitoring of seafloor avalanches with studies of modern and ancient outcrops, alongside experimental modeling. Esther's work involves participation in research groups focused on geology and geophysics, overseeing various completed projects, and coordinating international efforts in the direct monitoring of active turbidity currents at global test sites.

Research Interests

Experience

Associate Professor

2022-01-01 — Present

University of Southampton • Southampton

Teaching and research in Sedimentology.

Lecturer

2012-01-01 — 2022-01-01

University of Southampton • Southampton

Conducting research and teaching Sedimentology.

Postdoctoral Fellow

2012-01-01 — 2015-01-01

Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute • Moss Landing, California, USA

Research on oceanographic studies.

Postdoctoral Fellow

2010-01-01 — 2012-01-01

University of Leeds • UK

Research focused on earth and environmental studies.

Postdoctoral Fellow

2009-01-01 — 2010-01-01

National Oceanography Centre Southampton • Southampton

Research in Geology and Geophysics.

Courses

Earth Materials Sedimentary Systems Processes Sediments modern ancient