XClose

UCL Department of Space and Climate Physics

Home
Menu

Connor Ballard

PhD Student

Department of Space and Climate Physics


I am a third year PhD student focussing on the detection, preservation and degradation of biosignatures in Martian analogue environments using a variety of spectroscopic techniques. I have a background in Geology and planetary science, therefore I love exploring field sites which can give insights on a past and potentially habitable Mars. Currently, I am investigating the potential of Lake Salda Mg-Carbonate deposits, collected during field work in Turkey, to preserve biosignatures when exposed to Martian conditions. This work contributes to understanding the biosignature preservation potential of similar Mg-Carbonates in Jezero Crater, a promising site in the search for past life on Mars. 

Outside of my research interests, I am a keen runner, being fortunate enough to run the 2024 London Marathon for the Outward Bound Trust, with more on the horizon in the years to come. I'm also a wannabe wakeboarder, if my local lake ever reopens, alongside pretending I can play tennis, which only occurs on a monthly basis, if that.

Face Placeholder
Research GroupPlanetary Science
SupervisorsDr Louisa Preston
Contactconnor.ballard.21@ucl.ac.uk