Birger Rasmussen

Birger Rasmussen is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Western Australia's School of Earth and Oceans. His research investigates Precambrian geology, focusing on banded iron formations, early Earth environments, and geochronology to understand ancient ocean chemistry and biological processes.

His ARC-funded projects examine iron formation depositional mechanisms, early oxygenation events, and links between hydrocarbon migration and mineralization. Professor Rasmussen developed innovative U-Pb dating techniques using rare-earth-element phosphate minerals (monazite, xenotime) to date Precambrian events.

Current work analyzes Archean organic-rich mudrocks, hydrothermal vent precipitates, and Paleoproterozoic stratigraphy. His discoveries include evidence of Earth's earliest iron age through iron silicate nanoparticles in ancient oceans.

Professional background: Former petroleum geologist (Chevron Australia) and ARC Australian Professorial Fellow. Holds BSc(Hons) from UWA and PhD on hydrocarbon migration and mineralization.