Dr. Jemma Davidson
Cosmochemist, petrologist, planetary scientist
Welcome
About Me
I am an isotope cosmochemist and petrologist in Arizona State University’s Buseck Center for Meteorite Studies. My expertise lie in the petrology and isotope chemistry of planetary materials, from primitive astromaterials (including chondrites and interplanetary dust particles and their organic and presolar grain components) to samples from evolved bodies such as Apollo lunar samples, martian meteorites and terrestrial analogs (Icelandic basalts).
I hold a first class honours MSci undergraduate degree in Geoscience from Durham University and a Ph.D. in Planetary Science and Cosmochemistry from the Open University.
My Research
My research aims to identify and characterize primitive early Solar System samples to aid our understanding of the material from which small bodies formed and how this materials evolved. I also study the nature, distribution, and evolution of volatiles in planetary bodies.
In addition to advanced sample preparation techniques, my analytical expertise include SIMS (secondary ion mass spectrometry), EPMA (electron probe microanalysis), SEM (scanning electron microscopy), microRaman spectroscopy, and synchrotron-based XANES (X-ray absorption near-edge spectroscopy).
Service and Media Activities
Throughout my career, I have undertaken extensive service activities. Notably, I currently serve as Vice Chair of the NASA-chartered ExMAG (Extraterrestrial Materials Analysis Group).
My work has been featured by the national media and I have contributed to several popular science publications. You can find more information here.
I also undertake various education and public outreach activities, from open days to school visits, both in person and virtually.
Further information:
Contact
Email: jdavidson at asu dot edu
Buseck Center for Meteorite Studies
Arizona State University
781 East Terrace Road
Tempe AZ 85287-6004
USA
“This above all: to thine own self be true.”
— Hamlet, Act I, Scene III
“We endeavour to employ only symmetrical figures, such as should not only be an aid to reasoning, through the sense of sight, but should also be to some extent elegant in themselves.”
— John Venn
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