Philippa is an environmental scientist who works at the interface between chemistry, biology and physics. More specifically, at the interface between water and air, or the surface microlayer - a layer less than one millimetre thick.

The microlayer is ubiquitous in aquatic environments, so covers 70% of Earth's surface. It is made up of a complex mixture of organic matter that provides a unique habitat for microorganisms, is central to the global cycling of carbon, nutrients, gases and pollutants, and is impacted by human activities.

Philippa is interested in understanding the microscale processes that govern the carbon cycle, ecosystem health and ultimately Earth's climate.