Charles H Wellman

Professor Charles H Wellman is a Professor of Palaeobiology at the University of Sheffield's School of Biosciences. His research focuses on the origin and early evolution of land plants, integrating fossil and molecular data to explore evolutionary relationships and adaptations. He has held academic roles from Lecturer to Professor since 1997.

Education:

• BSc (1987), University of Southampton
• PhD (1991), Cardiff University

Research Interests: Professor Wellman investigates fossil plants (megafossils and microfossils), molecular clock analyses, Evo-Devo studies on spore development, and the impact of plant evolution on global change. He explores ancient microbial ecosystems in deposits like the Torridon Group and Nonesuch Formation.

Teaching: Coordinates modules in Evolution (APS121), Biodiversity (APS122), Palaeobiology (APS269), and Evolution of Terrestrial Ecosystems (APS341). Received the 2008 Departmental Teacher of the Year award.

Professional Roles:

• Editorial boards: Review of Palaeobotany and Palynology, Palaontologische Zeitschrift
• Palaeontological Association President (2018–present)
• International Federation of Palynological Societies Past President (2016–present)

Labs/Teams: Leads the Centre for Palynology and supervises a global network of researchers and students. His work includes collaborations with institutions like the Natural History Museum, London.