James Barnet, Science Editor for Rockwatch Magazine climbing Carn Mor Dearg, the 9th highest mountain in Scotland and the neighbour to Ben Nevis (near Fort William)
We are thrilled to welcome James Barnet as the new co-science editor of the Rockwatch magazine! James is a particularly special addition to our team because he first joined Rockwatch as a young enthusiast over 20 years ago. It was during his childhood as a Rockwatch member that James’s passion for geology was ignited, and we are delighted that now, as a distinguished geology lecturer, he’s bringing his expertise and enthusiasm full circle to inspire the next generation of geologists.
James’s journey with Rockwatch began when he discovered a leaflet at the Southampton Mineral and Fossil Society, leading to join at the age of 11. He vividly recalls the excitement of receiving Rockwatch magazine in his Rockwatch biography and how its fascinating articles and stunning imagery motivated him to explore geological projects and field trips during school holidays. James also participated in Rockwatch competitions, where he honed his geological skills and won prizes which he believes bolstered his budding career. Today, he credits Rockwatch as a key influence in shaping his path to becoming a prominent figure in the geological sciences.
James’s academic and professional achievements are truly inspiring. From earning a First-Class Master’s degree in Geology at the University of Southampton to completing a PhD at the University of Exeter, he has consistently pursued excellence in his field. His career has taken him across the globe for geological fieldwork and conferences, and he has even published two books celebrating his love for geology and the natural world. Currently, James is a lecturer at the University of St Andrews, where his research focuses on reconstructing past climates using the microscopic shells of marine organisms. His work not only advances our understanding of Earth’s history but also informs predictions about future climate change.
James’s role as co-science editor marks an exciting chapter for Rockwatch. He brings a unique perspective as both a former member and a professional geologist, combining his love of geology and writing to inspire young Rockwatchers through engaging content. We hope James’s remarkable journey will encourage our members to follow their own pathways into the geological sciences, just as he did.
Further Reading
For our older Rockwatch members, James has shared some of his recent articles published in Geology Today. These pieces, while tailored to a non-academic adult audience, provide valuable insights into geological topics:
- Geological evolution of the Hampshire Basin (southern England) during a global climate transition from ‘hothouse’ to ‘coolhouse’ in the Palaeogene – Barnet, 2023.
- Can a 62-million-year-old ‘hyperthermal’ event hold the clues to our uncertain future climate? – Barnet, 2024.
These articles are freely accessible and serve as excellent resources for those interested in delving deeper into the fascinating field of geology about learning more about James’s work.
