Chris Stocker Email & Phone Number

Leicester, Gb

The biogeographical significance of the Silurian trilobite assemblages of Japan The Palaeozoic rock succession of Japan is replete with fossil faunas that can be used to track its early geographical evolution. This is important, because for much of their geological history, terranes that characterize Japan’s ‘Outer Zone’, to the south of the Median Tectonic Line (a large tectonic structure that runs from Kyushu through to central Honshu island), have a distinctly different taxonomic signal to those north of the MTL within Japan’s ‘Inner Zone’. This signature is apparent in Japan’s most ancient fossil assemblages, those from the Silurian of the Hida-Gaien, South Kitakami and Kurosegawa terranes. Differences in fossil assemblages may also reflect differences in overall environment between regions that were continent facing, and those that were ocean facing. Analysis of Japan’s fossils through the Silurian can be used to explore patterns of terrane amalgamation. In this project, the extensive trilobite faunas of the three Silurian terranes will be examined to: 1) identify their true taxonomic significance; 2) clarify their lithofacies distribution and environmental ranges; 3) establish their bioegeographical significance and use this to examine the early terrane evolution of Japan.

University Of Leicester, Department Of Geology

Providing technical, logistical and organisational support to coordinate the activities of a diverse network studying the Early Palaeozoic terranes of Japan, effectively ensuring the efficient running of the project. Liasing with colleagues in Leicester, Oxford, Nagoya (Japan), Keele, the British Geological Survey, and Lille (France).Principal Accountabilities include:• Organizing and coordinating workshops, conferences and fieldwork, and liaison between the network team members• Assisting in the laboratory preparation and scientific curation of fossil specimens• Coordinating the development of fossil databases for the network• Developing skills in the analysis of one or more fossil groups• Coordinating interaction between the network for thematic publications• Overseeing the construction and development of a network specific website

1st class honours MGeol Geology with Palaeobiology.84% for final year MGeol independent research project.Other modules taken include: Geological applications of microfossils (77%), Major events in the history of life (80%), Exceptional preservation (74%), Diversity and evolution of vertebrates (75%), Controls on depositional systems (73%), Sedimentology and Stratigraphy (68%), Research skills (77%)

Working part time in a variety of catering establishments for the university, including halls of residence and on campus catering outlets. Involved in the training and supervision of student staff members.

Mgeol, Geology With Palaeobiology, Expected 1St Class

Activities and Societies: Founding member of and fieldwork secretary for the University of Leicester Palaeobiology Society.Member.

A Levels

Gcse