2003 IRISH SCIENTIST YEAR BOOK

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University of Ulster
Andrew Cooper
Integrating Coastal Research at the University of Ulster

The natural coastal landscape and its cultural overlay at Portrush, County Antrim, epitomises the multidisciplinary approach (coastal processes, maritime archaeology and coastal zone management) of the coastal studies research group at UU.

The Coastal Studies Research Group (CSRG) at the University of Ulster embraces complementary research in coastal geomorphology, maritime archaeology, Quaternary environmental change, and coastal zone management. Using state-of-the-art techniques in field and laboratory work, the group works onshore and offshore to research the record and dynamics of environmental change at Quaternary, historical and contemporary timescales. Synergistic working between the various sections of the group has recently been enhanced with the construction of a new �1.5 million centre for coastal studies on the Coleraine Campus that will bring group members together under one roof and provide a one-stop-shop for coastal research.

Our research in coastal geomorphology includes studies of the impact of climate change and sea level change on coastal systems. Using high-resolution geophysical equipment, we elucidated the position of sea level on the north coast which precludes a land-bridge to Britain and has important implications for the insularity of Ireland.

Quaternary records of environmental change on the Irish coast have provided globally important records. We recently correlated records from the east Irish coast with other proxy climate records (deep sea and ice cores) of the Amphi-North Atlantic and have added significantly to understanding of the ice-ocean atmosphere system.

The Centre for Maritime Archaeology is a collaborative venture with government which takes an integrated approach to the maritime cultural landscape. Its staff discovered and excavated the world's oldest tidal mill and are conducting ongoing investigations on, for example, the wreck of La Surveillante in Bantry Bay, the Causeway Coast and Rathlin Island, and sites in east Africa.

In coastal zone management, we apply the results of scientific investigations, and study additional socio-economic aspects of coastal zone management. Through collaborative work with Donegal County Council and local communities, we participated in the EU demonstration programme in Integrated Coastal Zone Management and provide guidance to numerous ICZM initiatives.

Contact: Dr Andrew Cooper; Tel: +44 28 70324429;
E-mail: [email protected] ; Web: www.science.ulst.ac.uk/crg