DrMalcolm Possell

Dr Possell’s research interests are on the flux of trace gases, such as CO₂, CO and volatile organic compounds, and particles between the biosphere and atmosphere and the mechanisms controlling these fluxes. Trace gases and particles have significant impacts on air quality and climate and subsequently on plant, animal and human wellbeing, as well as plant-plant, and plant-animal interactions.

He has three main research interests:

1. Determining how and why different biotic and abiotic stresses affect the biosynthesis and emission of VOCs. These stresses include herbivory, transient high light and temperatures, reduced and elevated CO₂, and elevated ozone.
2. Understanding the role VOCs play in plant-plant and plant-animal interactions.
3. Understanding how trace gas emissions, including VOCs, from vegetation fires are controlled, and their role in controlling flammability.

Recently, he has been working with animal behaviour, marine and fire ecologists, both nationally and internationally, in measuring VOCs from a range of terrestrial and marine species.