J.D. Orford

Editorial Board, Marine Geology

Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK

Julian Orford is Professor of Physical Geography at Queen's University,Belfast, where he was past head of the School of Geography, Archaeology and Palaeoecology (2005-09). His research has concentrated on the dynamics and development of gravel beaches and barriers in Britain, Ireland and eastern Canada, in particular with respect to relative sea-level change and sediment supply. Over the last decade, he has been working on the responses of a wide range of coastal morphologies (barriers, dunes and marshes) to both sea-level change and increased storminess related to climatic change. In particular, he is focusing on the trigger role of extreme events on swash-aligned gravel barrier behaviour. His research work on coastal function and behaviour has stimulated collaboration with EU R&D, UK Government agencies, NGOs and coastal consultancies over the future of the UK coastline and infrastructure.