Marli de Jongh

I’m Marli, a Ph.D. researcher based in the school of Geographical and Earth Sciences at the University of Glasgow. I have a background in Geology and also completed my BCs Hons at Glasgow before moving on to my Ph.D. studies. My Ph.D. research focusses on understanding the weathering and decay of sandstone in Scotland’s historic buildings, with a focus on clay mineralogy and the influence this has on sandstone durability. My research involves the characterisation of mineralogical and petrophysical properties of sandstones used in Scottish heritage, using various scientific instruments including scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD).

Outwith my Ph.D. research I have been regularly involved in teaching and science communication. I primarily teach Geology undergraduate students in a lab leading and tutor capacity. I became Associate Fellow after achieving RET (Recognising Excellence in Teaching) recognition with LEADS. As well as teaching at Glasgow, I also have experience designing and delivering outreach activities and workshops to diverse audiences at science centres and schools.

During my Ph.D. I completed a policy internship with the Future’s Forum thinktank at Scottish Parliament, Holyrood, and the Edinburgh Centre for Carbon Innovation (ECCI). The internship involved land-use analysis of several sites in Scotland assessing the impact of private cars, in the context of climate change and air pollution in Scottish cities.

I am nearing the end of my Ph.D. studies, scheduled to submit in summer (~June 2022). I am currently seeking opportunities, both in Scotland and further afield, relating to Earth Science/Geoscience research, environmental/climate-based policy roles, science communication and outreach, and university level teaching.

Finally, a healthy work-life balance is important to me. When I’m not working on my Ph.D. I enjoy spending time with my family, running, swimming, walking, and just being outside generally. I am also a very sociable person who likes meeting and working with new people and visiting new places.