Poul Christofferson Lecturer, Centre for Glaciology, Institute for Geography and Earth Sciences, University of Wales, Aberystwyth

Job advertised in The Times Higher , March 12, 2004

From his office overlooking Cardigan Bay, Poul Christofferson, lecturer in glaciology at the University of Wales, Aberystwyth, explained why he moved here from California. "Glaciology is becoming more and more important in understanding climate change," he said.

"In Europe, unification of atmospheric sciences, glaciology and oceanography is beginning. Contrast that with the US, where the disciplines are quite separate and insular.

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"The glaciology centre is one of the biggest in the UK and leads the field." He also noted that Wales had spectacular glacial landscapes.

"Getting the job was very competitive. The interview lasted a day. I had to show how my work fitted in with existing work portfolios, the research strategy of the department and the teaching courses."

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Dr Christofferson has access to a university start-up grant of £8,000 to continue research on his own projects.

"As a young lecturer, I'm very happy with the job here," he said. "In other places they have a tradition of giving newcomers all the crap stuff."

Martyn Bull