Simon Varley

I joined the Marine Geophysics team in Salisbury in July 2018, after completing my PhD in Coastal Geomorphology at Durham University. My role in the team is to QC, process and interpret geophysical data to identify seabed features of archaeological interest, primarily associated with offshore wind farms, aggregate extraction areas and interconnector cables. 

I have a broad range of interdisciplinary academic and professional experience. Prior to joining Wessex Archaeology, I worked as an Exploration Geophysicist in the Galilee Basin, Queensland, and in the Blue Mountains near Sydney, Australia. Following this, I spent two years on a survey vessel in the Mediterranean, collecting and processing 2D and 3D seismic data for clients in the oil and gas industry. During my PhD, I developed novel measurement and processing techniques as part of a wider coastal erosion monitoring programme, and undertook regular laser scanner, photogrammetry, UAV, GPS and airborne LiDAR surveys.

I am motivated primarily by my desire to develop innovative solutions to complex geophysical problems and improve our processing and interpretation techniques. I am also passionate about conservation and heritage. 

Outside of work I enjoy road and cross-country mountain biking, alongside more leisurely pursuits including piano, cooking and wandering around looking for wildflowers.