Helen M. Williams

Prof. Helen M. Williams is a Professor of Geochemistry and Planetary Science at the University of Cambridge's Department of Earth Sciences. Her research focuses on planetary formation and evolution through non-traditional stable isotope systems, particularly transitions metals like iron, zinc, and platinum. She investigates mantle processes, core formation, subduction zone dynamics, and biogeochemical cycles in polar regions. Her work is funded by ERC grants (e.g., 'EarthMelt' and 'HabitablePlanet'), NERC, and the Leverhulme Centre for Life in the Universe. She leads a team using advanced equipment like Thermo Neptune Plus MC-ICP-MS and the new Neoma MC-ICP-MS with collision-reaction cells.

• Key Research Themes: Magma ocean crystallization, planetary habitability, metal cycling in green energy transitions, subglacial weathering.
• Funding: ERC Advanced Grant (EarthMelt), ERC Consolidator Grant (HabitablePlanet), Leverhulme Trust.

Her lab facilities include clean-lab geochemistry suites and high-pressure/temperature experimental setups. She mentors independent research fellows funded by the Humboldt Foundation and Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions, focusing on early Earth crust evolution and Arctic geochemistry. She actively supervises PhD students and advocates for interdisciplinary collaboration in planetary science.