Using Our Facilities
Learn how to prepare and submit samples for analysis at the UCL Geography Environmental Radiometric Facility, including key requirements, procedures, and guidance from our expert team.
Check Costs and Timelines Before Submitting Samples
Before sending samples for analysis, contact Dr Handong Yang (Facility Manager) or Dr Lucy Roberts (Academic Coordinator) for up-to-date costs and expected turnaround times, as these can vary depending on demand.
Contact Dr YangSample Submission Requirements
- Site name
- Location (Latitude; longitude)
- Sampling date
- Sediment analyses: Minimum 0.5g dry mass per sample. Ideally send ~2g per sample to reduce counting time and background errors.
- Core dating work: Send as many samples as possible at the start. Requesting additional samples later may significantly delay reporting.
- Dry samples only: Freeze-drying or air-drying is acceptable.
- For sediment and soil core samples, dry density data are required to calculate radionuclide inventories.
- If unavailable, dry density can be calculated from dry weight (or water content) and wet density.
- Questions? Please email us for guidance.
Do
Prepare Samples Properly
Send enough sample mass to reduce errors.
Ensure Samples Are Dry
Dry your samples before submission.
Provide Complete Site Information
Include site name, location, and sampling date.
Don't
Send Wet Samples
Wet samples can affect analysis accuracy.
Submit Partial Core Samples
Only send partial cores if instructed, as missing samples delay results.
Skip Contacting Staff
Always check costs and timelines before submitting samples.
Standard Operating Procedures
A document covering the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for our laboratory is available upon request.
Email Dr YangSending and Returning Samples
Send samples to:
The Department of Geography
North-West Wing
University College London
Gower Street
London WC1E 6BT, UK
Attn: Dr Handong Yang or Dr Lucy Roberts
Analyses are non-destructive. Let us know if you would like your samples returned after analysis.
Got questions? Get in touch.
Contact us if you have any questions about studying Geography at UCL.
Principal Research Fellow and Facility Manager
Click to email. handong.yang@ucl.ac.uk
Lecturer in Environmental Change and Academic Coordinator
Click to email. lucy.roberts@ucl.ac.uk