Peter Lawrence

Biography

I am a strong advocate for the value of #DyslexicThinking. My dyslexia, while occasionally challenging, provides me with a unique ability to synthesize complex information, identify spatial and large-scale data patterns, and understand the interconnectedness of diverse topics.

My academic background includes a B.Sc. in Earth Science and Computing, where I specialized in the application of data science techniques, such as database design and neural networks, to geological and environmental research. Following seven years in industry, I pursued an M.Sc. in Environmental Management and Sustainable Development, reigniting my passion for coastal, digital, and surveying disciplines. This experience reinforced my belief that my cognitive style is a distinct advantage.

I have since demonstrated my communication skills through public speaking awards and poster competition wins and successfully completed a Ph.D. in Coastal Management at Manchester Metropolitan University, focusing on species diversity, carbon, and nutrient storage.

I am a Fellow of Advanced Higher Education, holding higher education teaching qualifications. My fellowship application highlighted the benefits of student-led curriculum design, and I am committed to fostering critical thinking and advanced learning in my students.

Research and scholarship

Despite being in the early stages of my research career, I have already achieved notable successes. My research on the potential underestimation of saltmarsh carbon sequestration was presented at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26), highlighting the importance of this ecosystem in climate mitigation strategies. Furthermore, I have actively contributed to public engagement initiatives, facilitating crucial dialogue between farmers, town planners, and local government officials concerning the challenges of sea-level rise.

My current research interests centre on the pivotal role of topography in shaping species distribution, climate resilience, and habitat stability. I am particularly excited by the potential of the digital revolution to unlock new proxies and cost-effective methods for assessing ecological conditions across vast landscapes. However, I firmly believe that these advancements are built upon the foundation of decades of meticulous research, underscoring the critical importance of foundational ecological studies.

Teaching

My teaching covers a wide range of subjects, giving students practical and theoretical experience. We do hands-on fieldwork in environmental science and geography, learning about ecosystems and how to map landscapes. In the lab, we explore the theories of evolution, facilitation and competition studying how species adapt, change and sometimes shape their environment. We also dive into computational geospatial analysis, teaching students how to use computers to analyse geographic data, which is a valuable skill in many fields.

I believe assessments should do more than just test knowledge. That's why I focus on assessments that help students learn and develop skills they can use in their careers. For example, instead of just taking exams, students might work on projects that require them to solve real-world problems, analyse data, or present their findings. This approach helps them build practical skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication, which are essential for success after graduation.

Supervision

My early career has been marked by significant success in mentoring undergraduate and postgraduate students, culminating in collaborative publications in peer-reviewed journals, a testament to the efficacy of my mentorship approach.

I currently provide doctoral supervision to two Ph.D. candidates and maintain an active role in supervising numerous undergraduate and postgraduate dissertations.

I welcome inquiries from prospective researchers interested in exploring coastal processes, geospatial ecology, and use of LiDAR, AI and geochemistry in the aforementioned fields but also in those of woodland ecology and the built environment.

Outreach

I am passionate about science communication and strongly advocate for open science and public accountability.

I am known for a creative and innovative approach to teamwork and communication. I believe though our students, researchers, and universities can develop new ways to communicate complex topics to the public. I suspect it is via listening to the next generation we may find the opportunities to progress, convince and fund emerging ideas and technologies.

My achievements include public speaking and data presentation awards, and a NERC grant for coastal communication research.