Welcome!
I am an Associate Professor of Geophysics in the Department of Earth Sciences at the University of Oxford and a Tutorial Fellow at Exeter College, funded by a Royal Society University Research Fellowship. I also lead the DEEPSCAPE research group here.
As a seismologist I am interested in using seismic waves to understand the world around us, ranging from planetary-scale processes to social seismology. I find it fascinating that the tiny signals recorded at the Earth's surface allow us to answer fundamental questions about its deep interior, and yet also provide detailed information about human and animal behaviour.
In my research, I enjoy working across disciplines, linking seismology with geodynamics and mineral physics, as well as combining insights with zoologists and geologists. Much of my research is hypothesis driven, often combining data, forward and inverse modelling, with a strong emphasis on data uncertainties.
I am passionate about communicating my research and global seismology in general (see here for more information). I am also happy to advice and support early-career researchers in their funding applications.
Postdocs, PhD students and undergraduate students interested in seismology projects and joining the DEEPSCAPE research group should not hesitate to get in touch to discuss possible projects and funding opportunities.
Fowler Award 2026 awarded by the Royal Astronomical Society
The Royal Astronomical Society is the UK’s leading scientific society dedicated to encouraging and promoting the study of astronomy, solar-system science and geophysics. The Society established the Fowler Award for Geophysics in 2004, and since then it has been awarded annually to individuals who have made a particularly noteworthy contribution to geophysics at an early stage of their research career. This Prize recognises Paula’s research achievements to-date, especially her work to advance our understanding of Earth’s deep interior.
Futurum educational resources on deep Earth seismology
I developed educational resources for schools about my research into the deep Earth. Besides producing an article discussing the landscapes in the deep Earth and general seismology, there is also an activity sheet for school teachers to use in lessons, and an animation will soon be added as well. The resources were produced by Futurum Careers, a free online resource and magazine aimed at encouraging 14-19-year-olds worldwide to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine (STEM).
Pint of Science podcast about a range of seismological topics
I spoke to Callam & Jim for a Pint Of Science podcast about a range of seismological topics. We touched not only on global seismology and the landscapes of the deep Earth, but also talked about how anthropogenic seismic noise has been affected by Covid-19 governmental lockdowns, and even chatted about Marsquakes and Messiquakes!