David Small

Dr. David Small is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Geography at Durham University, specializing in reconstructing past ice sheet behavior using geochronological techniques. His research examines how Antarctic and Greenland ice sheets responded to historical climate change, with a focus on deglaciation timing, ice dynamics, and paleoclimate implications. He employs cosmogenic nuclide dating and glacial geomorphology to constrain ice-thinning rates and retreat patterns.

Research Interests: Dr. Small's work integrates field data, geochronology, and ice-sheet modeling to address critical questions about cryosphere-climate feedbacks. Key themes include:

• Antarctic Ice Sheet stability during past warm periods
• Topographic controls on marine-based ice streams
• Glacial isostatic adjustment effects on exposure dating
• Deglaciation chronology of the British-Irish Ice Sheet

Publication Trends: His recent articles (2019–2025) demonstrate a strong focus on Antarctic and North Atlantic ice sheet dynamics, utilizing advanced geochronological methods (cosmogenic nuclides, luminescence) and cross-validating models with geological evidence. Recurring themes include ice-retreat mechanisms, sea-level interactions, and refining deglaciation timelines.

Awards:

• NERC Independent Research Fellowship for investigating Antarctic Ice Sheet stability

Supervision & Labs: Dr. Small currently advises two MRes students (Katie Meddins, Tom Bartles-Smith) and collaborates with international consortia like BRITICE-CHRONO. His fieldwork involves Antarctic subglacial drilling campaigns and geomorphological mapping in polar regions.