People

Prof. David Manning

Introduction

I'm interested in how soils and plants interact in response to climate change, and how we can exploit soil processes to minimise the effects of anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions.

I use my research-based understanding of how soils and their constituent minerals interact with the biosphere in two contexts: 1) carbon capture (through carbonate precipitation or biochar addition), and 2) plant nutrient supply (especially novel sources of K).

I use my earlier work on granites and petroleum systems to develop novel sources of carbon-neutral geoenergy, including deep geothermal power generation in northern England.

Background

By training I'm a geologist (specialising in geochemistry and mineralogy), bringing skills from that area to the field of soil science whilst maintaining activity in mineral raw materials, energy and waste management.

Professional Qualifications and Service

A member of the Institution of Geologists since 1979, I became a Chartered Geologist in 1993, a Chartered Scientist in 2005, and a European Geologist in 2005.   From 2008 - 2011 I was Professional Secretary of the Geological Society of London, the person responsible for the award of Chartered Geologist, Chartered Scientist and European Geologist status to competent professionals. 

I am a Member of Council of the European Federation of Geologists, which awards professional qualification in geology across Europe, and I chair the EFG's Panel of Experts on Soil Protection.

During my service as Professional Secretary, I oversaw the establishment of the Register of Ground Engineering Professionals, and implemented new procedures for the Chartership process, focusing on the UK and Hong Kong.  I oversaw the accreditation of undergraduate and taught postgraduate programmes in geology in the UK and overseas, and the introduction of accredited company training schemes.

Roles and Responsibilities

Deputy Head of School of Civil Engineering & Geosciences, 2010-present.

Member of Newcastle University Council, 2009-2012. 

Director, Institute for Research on Environment and Sustainability, 2008-2010.

University Quaker Contact (go to www.quakers-in-newcastle.org.uk for more information about Newcastle Quaker activities).

Professional Secretary, Geological Society of London (2008-2011), responsible for all aspects of professional development (degree accreditation, chartership, cpd etc).

Advisory Committee Member, International Biochar Initiative (2008-2011).

Steering Committee Member, ESF MOLTER programme (www.molter.no)

Secretary of Cambois Rowing Club (www.cambois-rowing.org).

Qualifications

B.Sc. (Geology), class 2:1, Durham, 1976
Ph.D. (Geology), Manchester, 1979
Fellow of the Geological Society of London (since 1976).
Chartered Geologist (since 1993).
Chartered Scientist (since 2005).
European Geologist (since 2005).

Previous Positions

2000 Professor in Environmental Geochemistry, University of Manchester
1996 -2000 Reader in Geology, University of Manchester
1992-1996 Senior Lecturer in Geology, University of Manchester
1988-1992 Lecturer in Geology, University of Manchester
1983-1988 New Blood Lecturer in Geology, University of Newcastle upon Tyne.
1981-1982 Post-doctoral research fellow (chercheur assimilé) Centre de Recherches Pétrographiques et Géochimiques, Nancy (funded by CNRS ATP Internationale).
1979-1981 Post-doctoral research fellow (NERC GT5/F/79/GS/3), Department of Geology, University of Manchester.

Visiting appointments, directorships and fellowships:
2001-2002 Leverhulme Research Fellow
1996 Visiting Scientist (NSERC-Royal Society exchange programme), Geological Survey of Canada (Calgary) and Associate, University of Calgary
1996 onwards Director, Mineral Solutions Ltd
1994-2000 Associate, Greater Manchester Geological Unit
1988-1989 Nuffield Science Research Fellow.

Industrial experience

Director, Mineral Solutions Ltd (1996-2006; www.mineralsolutions.co.uk)

Founding shareholder, Cluff Geothermal Ltd (www.cluffgeothermal.com)

Over 30 years global experience working with extractive industries in connection with the production, processing and use of mineral raw materials.   Mineral raw material sourcing, processing, manufacture and sales of a fertiliser product (MSL-K).   Pre-production processing of expanding pumice.    Testing and advice on landfill design, specifically landfill drainage systems, in collaboration with TerraConsult Ltd.  Substantial experience in consultancy and mineral/environmental project management.

Memberships

Geological Society of London (Chartered)
Mineralogical Society
Geochemical Society
International Association of Geochemists and Cosmochemists
Mineralogical Association of Canada

Honours and Awards

Mineralogical Society Distinguished Lecturer, 2009-2010.
Schlumberger Medal, Mineralogical Society, 2004.
Wollaston Fund (Geological Society of London), 1993

Languages

French (rusty) 

Informal Interests

Rowing (www.cambois-rowing.org)
Music (cello, violin; Scottish and Northumbrian tradition)