SIBERICE · Closing expanding knowledge gaps in Siberian palaeo-glaciology

Significant research efforts have been directed toward documenting glacial landform signatures for constraining the extents and chronology of past ice masses. Reconstructions show that global ice masses during the last glaciation were larger than present, lowering global sea level by ~114 m. However, ~12% of this ice contributed sea level budget is unaccounted for, suggesting that a “missing” ice mass has yet to be constrained. SIBERICE will test the hypothesis that a Siberian ice sheet existed during the last glacial, with its demise representing the unbudgeted contribution to the last glacial sea levels.To reconstruct past ice masses, I will collate landform data relating to the ice masses that glaciated Siberia and use high-resolution satellite imagery to systematically identify and map glacial landforms. This landform record will be inverted to reconstruct past ice extent and dynamics. Ice mass volumes and sea level equivalents will be calculated from the reconstructed lateral ice extents using a numerical model. I will also develop a novel method for remotely determining the age of ice margins from the morphometry of moraine ridges. To establish the moraine degradation dating curve, dimensions of chronometrically dated moraines will be systematically measured. Establishing this curve will allow the approach to be applied to remote locations around the world.The SIBERICE project at UiT will provide a prestigious platform to gain valuable training in: the leadership of large science projects; morphometric and statistical analysis of large geomorphological datasets; application of numerical models for researching the cryosphere; and teaching experience. SIBERICE targets an area of high uncertainty in palaeo-glaciology and climate change, which is highlighted as of strategic importance by scientific and governmental organisations. SIBERICE will therefore place me in a strong position to become a world leader in palaeo-glaciology and secure a faculty position.