Tal Ben Altabet

Dr. Tal Ben Altabet is a Researcher affiliated with the Institute of Geochemistry and Petrology at ETH Zurich, within the Department of Geochemistry and Petrology (School of Earth and Planetary Sciences, D-EAPS). His work focuses on marine geochemistry, trace metal dynamics, and isotope geochemistry in oceanic environments. Key research themes include anthropogenic metal cycling, dust-driven perturbations, and the interplay between dissolved and particulate trace elements in coastal and open ocean systems.

His studies span the Red Sea, Mediterranean Sea, and Pacific Ocean, with a particular emphasis on the Gulf of Aqaba. He employs advanced analytical techniques such as isotope tracing (e.g., Pb, Nd isotopes) and time-series monitoring to investigate element transport mechanisms, environmental impacts of dust storms, and coral reef resilience under pollution and climate stressors. Collaborative projects like the REDMAST initiative highlight his focus on long-term environmental monitoring and biogeochemical process understanding.

Dr. Ben Altabet’s contributions include pioneering work on using foraminiferal shells and invasive ascidians as biological proxies for heavy metal pollution tracking. His research bridges fundamental geochemistry with applied environmental science, addressing global challenges such as ocean acidification and anthropogenic contaminant distribution.