James Rothwell is a Reader in Physical Geography at The University of Manchester. He became an academic member of staff at Manchester in 2008, following a bachelor’s degree and PhD in Geography at the same institution. His research and teaching explores the sources, behaviour and impacts of pollutants in the environment. He works on different pollutants – including heavy metals and microplastics, and in different environmental contexts – including rivers and soils. Research projects have taken him to Africa, Asia, North America and across Europe. A large part of James’ applied research involves partnerships beyond academia including regulatory bodies, utility providers, city councils, NGOs, and charities.

Talk: The global significance of microplastics in Manchester’s muddy rivers