Andy Baker

Professor Andy Baker is a leading academic at the School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, UNSW Sydney. With a career spanning over three decades, he has also held prestigious positions at the University of Birmingham, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, and University of Exeter.

• PhD in Speleothem Growth Rate and Paleoclimate, Bristol University (1990-1993)
• BSc (Hons) in Geographical Science, Bristol University (1987-1990)

His research focuses on the intersection between geology and water, utilizing stalagmites to reconstruct past climates, groundwater recharge patterns, and fire history. He specializes in isotopic and geochemical techniques for analyzing organic matter in natural and human environments, from groundwater systems to drinking water quality.

Recent publications highlight interdisciplinary applications of stalagmite analysis in climate science, fire history reconstruction through geochemical signatures, and groundwater recharge modeling using cave drip water networks. His work spans from Mediterranean karst systems to sub-Antarctic lakes, with a focus on global environmental change and hydrological sustainability.

Awardees include:

• Clarke Medal for Geology (2023)
• Fellow of Royal Society of NSW (2024)
• Over $75 million in successfully managed research grants

He currently supervises PhD students in projects related to climate modeling, groundwater sustainability, and karst hydrology. His outreach includes regular media engagement with ABC, The Conversation, and international cave science training programs.