معرفی
Richard Kimber is a Research Fellow at the University of Manchester, holding the Dr Dame Kathleen Ollerenshaw Fellowship in Earth and Environmental Sciences. Previously, he served as a Junior Group Leader at the University of Vienna (2020–2023). His research focuses on two core areas: 1) the environmental fate of nucleic acids, examining how geochemistry influences DNA/RNA stability in contexts like ancient DNA preservation and wastewater epidemiology; and 2) microbial valorisation of metals, developing sustainable methods to convert waste metals into catalytic nanomaterials. His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals related to sustainable production and responsible consumption (SDG 12) and climate action (SDG 13).
Kimber earned his PhD in 2013 from the University of Manchester, focusing on the biogeochemical behavior of plutonium and americium in contaminated soils under supervisors Prof. J. Lloyd and Prof. F. Livens.
Research Themes:
- Environmental nucleic acid stability and preservation mechanisms
- Microbial synthesis of biogenic nanoparticles for industrial applications
- Metal biorecovery from waste streams using microbial processes
- Geochemical controls on ancient DNA recovery in sediments
Recent Article Trends: Recent work emphasizes nanoparticle synthesis optimization (e.g., Pd and Cu nanoparticles), mercury isotope fractionation studies, and biomolecule-mineral interactions in both terrestrial and extraterrestrial contexts. Over 20 peer-reviewed articles highlight his contributions to environmental geochemistry and sustainable nanotechnology.
