Adam Jeffrey

Dr. Adam Jeffrey is a Lecturer in Forensic Geoscience at Keele University's School of Chemistry and Physical Sciences (CPS), appointed in October 2023. His academic journey spans over a decade at Keele, where he completed both his Integrated Masters degree in geoscience (2010) and PhD in petrology and geochemistry (2016), followed by a Masters degree in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education (2021).

His educational background includes:

• Integrated Masters degree in Geoscience (2010) - Keele University
• PhD in Petrology and Geochemistry (2016) - Keele University
• Masters degree in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education (2021)

Dr. Jeffrey's research spans multiple interdisciplinary domains with significant focus on forensic applications of geoscience. He specializes in using hand-held XRF for rapid, non-destructive analysis of forensically important materials including bone, soil, metal, rock, and water. His extended reality work develops innovative simulation-based learning experiences for laboratory and field education through the Thinglink platform. In inclusive education, he focuses particularly on supporting autistic learners in higher education, currently serving as principal investigator on a funded research project in this area. His petrology and mineralogy research investigates magma origins, evolution, and eruption processes through comprehensive geochemical analysis.

His recent publications demonstrate a strong trend toward technology integration in geoscience education and forensic applications. His work bridges traditional geological analysis with cutting-edge educational technology, particularly through virtual laboratory experiences. In forensic geoscience, his research focuses on environmental contamination analysis using portable XRF technology across industrial, criminal, and archaeological contexts.

His scientific achievements include:

• Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA) - 2024
• Topical Editor for Volcanica journal
• Founding Editor for the Student Journal of Natural Sciences

Dr. Jeffrey serves as principal investigator on a funded research project focused on giving autistic learners in science a voice in their education. He has developed numerous extended reality resources for education, including interactive simulations of X-ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy, petrographic microscopy, and ion chromatography. His work in curriculum development has significantly contributed to Keele's innovative teaching approaches.

He has established several digital resources and platforms for education, including multiple Thinglink-based interactive extended reality resources that simulate analytical instruments and laboratory experiences. These tools support accessible and inclusive learning in both field and laboratory settings, reflecting his commitment to educational innovation and his expertise in employing diverse analytical techniques including XRF, SEM-EDX, ICP-OES, ICP-MS, EMPA, FTIR, polarized light microscopy, and drone-based aerial photogrammetry.