Dr Rand Ismaeel - University of Southampton

Research Fellowships 2020

As a Royal Academy of Engineering Fellow, Dr Rand Ismaeel’s research delves into the fascinating world of photonics to unlock the ocean’s unanswered questions, focusing particularly on the measurement of greenhouse gases such as methane.

The oceans are critical to our planet’s climate system and understanding their role in the global carbon cycle is more urgent than ever. Methane, although present in smaller quantities than carbon dioxide, has a significantly higher, influence on global warming and climate change, making its accurate measurement essential. His work involves developing advanced photonics tools that offer rapid, precise, and cost-effective methods for detecting and measuring methane levels in oceanic environments.

Moreover, these measurements help us understand the broader carbon cycle, which includes the complex interactions between the ocean and the atmosphere. One of the fascinating aspects of methane in the ocean is its presence in the form of methane hydrates, which are stable compounds that can release large amounts of methane if disturbed. By accurately measuring methane levels, we can monitor the stability of these hydrates and their potential impact on climate. The tools he is developing at the University of Southampton use light-based photonic technologies to detect and quantify methane with unprecedented accuracy and speed.

This research aims to bridge significant knowledge gaps regarding oceanic methane emissions and their effects on our climate. By advancing photonic technologies, Dr Ismaeel’s team can achieve more reliable and extensive monitoring of greenhouse gases in the ocean, and particularly methane dynamics, ultimately contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of their role in global climate systems. This work holds promise for developing strategies to mitigate climate change impacts, showcasing the profound potential of photonics in addressing some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.

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