Using advanced morphometrics and AI to track evolutionary ecological changes and re-evaluate Neogene pH-based pCO2

Palaeoclimatology provides the only means to observe how the Earth's climate system behaves under elevated atmospheric CO2 levels (pCO2), being a cornerstone in climate projection studies. A major provider of ancient pCO2 are the boron isotope ratios (δ11B) from the shells of planktonic foraminifera (single-celled microorganisms). Yet, interpreting this proxy is challenging due to evolutionary changes, speciation and vital effects. A key past period with high pCO2 and temperatures is the Miocene Climatic Optimum (MCO, 16.7–14.7 millions of years ago [Ma]). However, substantial gaps exist in CO2 proxy data, further resulting in large uncertainties of climate sensitivity during the MCO. This limits our ability to use constraints from the MCO to provide us with robust projections for end-of-the-century climate scenarios. I will fill these gaps with eCO2-MorpH, tracking evolutionary eco-morphological changes in Neogene (23-2.6 Ma) planktonic foraminifera during the last 22 Ma and provide a re-evaluation of ocean pH-based CO2 via the δ11B proxy. To achieve this ambitious goal, I will combine powerful morphometrics (myself), automated imaging, isotopic geochemistry and climate simulations (CEREGE), along with evolutionary models (secondments). By investigating morphological variability and associated geochemical signals through time (oxygen and carbon stable isotopes [δ18O and δ13C], trace elements [Mg/Ca]), eCO2-MorpH will provide a revised evolutionary framework to reassess geochemical proxy records. Producing high temporal resolution (at 3 kyr) and calibrated δ11B-based pCO2 for the MCO, eCO2-MorpH will refine climate simulations, likely leading to new scenarios. eCO2-MorpH will allow me to master cutting-edge analytical and modelling approaches, and preparing me an innovative, independent, and excellence-oriented researcher. Through this project I will obtain the expertise required to secure a permanent position and establish my own laboratory group in Europe.