Alicja Wudarska EAG Early Career Science Ambassador travels to Geoanalysis2024 in Wuhan, China
With the support of the EAG Early Career Science Ambassador Program, I had the opportunity to attend the 12th International Conference on the Analysis of Geological and Environmental Materials, Geoanalysis 2024, held from 15th to 19th September in Wuhan, China. While some might consider traveling halfway around the world for just a few days a bit excessive, the experience at Geoanalysis 2024 was well worth the 24-hour journey, especially since this conference series takes place only once every three years.
At the conference, I presented findings from two of my research projects aimed at developing new reference materials for U-Pb, sulfur, and boron isotope analysis of apatite. Feedback from specialists in the audience was very useful, giving me fresh insights into data interpretation and helping move the projects forward. I also had the chance to meet some of my co-authors, which gave us a rare chance to discuss our geochemical analysis results in person and plan the next steps for our research.
The Geoanalysis conference series is always a great opportunity to learn about the latest methods in geosciences and receive direct advice on established techniques from experienced lab managers. This year, I learned about potential ways to optimize my workflow for scanning heterogeneous rock fragments and extracting detailed information from minerals of the apatite supergroup at the micro-scale. Networking opportunities like this are especially helpful for early-career researchers like me as I continue to improve my analytical strategies. During the conference, I also had the chance to visit the laboratory facilities at the State Key Laboratory of Geological Processes and Mineral Resources and the Faculty of Materials Science and Chemistry, which are equipped with cutting-edge analytical instruments that I was able to see in person for the first time.
The scientific and networking aspects were only part of what made my visit to Wuhan an exceptional experience. I was warmly welcomed by the local community and had the opportunity to try delicious cuisine that offered a variety of specialties. Despite the limited time and the weather (with temperatures at 30 degrees Celsius and high humidity making me feel like a steamed dumpling), I made the most of my trip. I explored the beautiful East Lake area surrounding the conference venue, visited the Yellow Crane Tower, and participated in a tea experience with my colleagues. I also received a last-minute invitation to see the Han Show, one of Wuhan’s top attractions, which combines cutting-edge technology with breathtaking acts that push the boundaries of physical possibility. Although I am not usually a fan of acrobatic shows, this one left me in awe.
I would not have been able to attend Geoanalysis 2024 without the financial support from the EAG, for which I am very grateful. I believe that supporting the attendance of early-career researchers at small and specialized meetings can significantly benefit their scientific careers. For example, I had the opportunity to develop a new and unexpected collaboration that will grant me access to instrumentation of which I was previously unaware. I hope this collaborative research will contribute to the advancement of geochemical studies and help other researchers in their work on minerals from the apatite supergroup.
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