LE BRAS Gwen

Mx. Gwen LE BRAS, having recently completed their Master’s degree in geology at the École Normale Supérieure de Lyon, is set to embark on their doctoral journey at the GET Department (Géosciences Environnement Toulouse) of the Observatoire Midi Pyrénées in Toulouse, France, alongside Dr. Klervia Jaouen, commencing in September 2023. Through this venture, they aspire to contribute novel insights at the crossroads of geology, biology, and anthropology, enriching our understanding of their impact on proxies such as Zn isotopes and CSIA-aa. Their research endeavors bridge the realms of biology and geology, culminating in their doctoral thesis that aims to shed new light on human dietary habits, physiological variations, and cultural influences.

Gwen’s journey into academia has been marked by a passionate pursuit of knowledge. They have earned the Agrégation de SV-STU in 2022. Their academic journey began in 2019, immersing themselves in the study of biology and geology at the École Normale Supérieure de Lyon and the Université Claude Bernard de Lyon. During this time, Gwen had the privilege of participating in multiple research internships, working closely with researchers such as Vincent BALTER, Jochen VOGL, Thomas TÜTKEN, and Samuel LE GOFF. These experiences ignited their passion for integrating geological and biological insights to address anthropological issues.

Their approach involves harnessing the power of stable zinc isotopes present in dental enamel, as well as the information contained in amino acid isotopes found in collagen. By applying these techniques, Gwen aims to untangle not only the complex food chains of Lake Baikal’s Neolithic and Bronze Age populations but also those spanning various global regions and historical epochs.

RESEARCH INTERESTS: Stable isotopes and their applications. Fractionation of zinc isotopes in food chain, magnesium isotopes in human body. Applications to human populations or health. Laboratory work and cooperation with research teams. Training in new methods.