Cutting-edge tools for geological research
Our Palaeontology and Advanced Microscopy Laboratories are stocked with rock, mineral and fossil specimens to teach students about the evolution of life on Earth.
The labs are used to teach practical skills in geology and biology on courses including BSc (Hons) Environmental Science, BSc (Hons) Palaeontology, BSc (Hons) Earth Science and MRes Science. The labs are also used by our researchers working in the area of Earth and Environmental Sciences.
The labs are used for processes such as acid digestion, air abrasion, microfossil extraction, sample processing, and identification and taxonomy of microfossils.
Equipment and amenities
- Fume hoods and acid digestion facilities
- Air abrasive system and air pens
- Wet and dry sieving apparatus
- Pneumatic chisels
- Polarising and scanning electron microscopes
- Leica compound DIC microscope
- Leica and Olympus stereo microscopes
- Olympus Epifluorescence microscope
Related facilities
Mineral Separation Laboratory
Explore our Mineral Separation Laboratory, where we separate and pick crystal grains from crushed rock for Palynology slides to help us understand how the earth was formed and tackle climate change.
Environmental Chemistry Analysis Laboratory
Use the equipment in this lab to identify and analyse chemicals and biochemicals in surface water, groundwater and soil, so you can develop strategies to minimise and remove their harmful environmental effects.
Mass Spectrometry and Laser Ablation Laboratory
Investigate the geological and planetary processes that influence environment change and natural resource formation in this lab, using our industry standard spectrometers and laser ablation system.
Where to find us
Palaeontology and Advanced Microscopy Laboratories
Burnaby Building
Burnaby Road
Portsmouth
PO1 3QL