Professor Jennifer Mc Elwain
Professor of Botany and paleobotanist from Trinity College whose research focuses on plant evolution, ancient atmospheres and how plants have terraformed Earth; featured guest for Science Week discussing paleobotany and biodiversity.
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Nov 5, 2025 • 1h 35min
Speaking with a professor about the evolution of plants, terraforming planets and extinction events
Professor Jennifer McElwain, a renowned botany expert from Trinity College, dives into the captivating world of paleobotany. She discusses how ancient plants shaped Earth's atmosphere through events like the Great Oxygenation. The conversation explores the significance of coal forests in carbon storage, the role of coprolites in finding ancient plants, and the potential of desiccation-tolerant plants for space travel. They also touch on biodiversity recovery efforts in farming and the importance of native species in restoring ecosystems.
