Patricia Corcoran was recruited to the Department of Earth Sciences at Western University in January 2003 for her expertise in Sedimentary Petrology: the study of chemical and mineralogical compositions and textures of sedimentary deposits. Patricia’s research focuses on natural and anthropogenic sedimentary deposits in order to gain an understanding of Earth’s changing surface and atmospheric processes through time. One significant element of her research concerns plastic debris in sediment, air, water, soil, and fish. Patricia and her research group are investigating the potential for this plastic debris to become part of the future rock record, thereby representing a symbol of humankind’s global effect on Earth’s environment.
When she isn’t busy with work, Patricia enjoys hiking, competing in throwing events, paddling, swimming, spending time with family and friends, volunteering, and making artworks. Patricia’s son Owen is completing his final year of a Bachelor of Environmental Studies degree at the University of Windsor and is on the varsity football team. Her other son Liam is in high school and competes in throwing events with the school and London Western Track and Field Club. Patricia’s stepson, Andreas, is an environmental technician living and working in Sherbrooke. She also has a snazzy tuxedo cat named Hogan, and polydactyl kitties Lizzie and Yates.
