Professor David Muirhead

Biography

Dave is a geologist, with further interests in mineralogy, astrobiology and planetary science. He has previously held positions within Halliburton as a logging geologist and subsequently a geochemist, with a strong focus on global research & development within the company.

Since arriving back at the University Dave has continued to take his research in new directions in the study of geofluids, rifted margins and fold and thrust belts, with exciting new collaborations in archaeology and medicine.

In January 2020 Dave took over the role as Head of School of Geosciences.

David obtained his BSc in Earth Science from the University of Glasgow and then his PhD from the University of Aberdeen.

Research Overview

Raman spectroscopy of carbon

Geofluids

Contact Metamorphism

Intrusion and petroleum system interactions

Astrobiology

Geology of Scotland

Geothermometry applied to fold-thrust belts

Current Research

• Thermal alteration of sedimentary rocks in fold and thrust belts.
• Application of Raman Spectroscopy to sedimentary organic matter to assess thermal maturity.
• The effects of igneous intrusions on petroleum systems with respect to thermal maturity and extractable organic matter potential.
• Raman spectroscopy of charcoal from wildfires through time.
• Application of Raman to archaeological and biological materials.

Teaching Responsibilities

Course Tutor

GL1005 Earth Through Geological Time

GL1505 Earth's Materials

GL2015 Petrology and Mineralogy

GL2510 Introduction to Field Geology 

GL3026 Field and Mapping Techniques

GL4028 Petroleum Geology: Geochemistry and Geofluids