Palynology and Earth Science Laboratories
The Palynology and Earth Science Laboratories at GNS Science, Gracefield, are multipurpose laboratories designed for a wide range of sample preparation and analysis within a secure, safe and contaminant-free environment.
The primary function of these laboratories is to process rock and sediment samples for palynological analysis – the study of pollen, spores, dinoflagellate cysts and other microscopic organic material. Samples are also processed from micropaleontology – especially for study of radiolarians and diatoms. The laboratories also prepare samples for mineralogical, geochemical and sedimentological analysis, and for radiometric dating.
Palynology processing and analysis is undertaken on a wide range of materials for research and consultancy:
- Paleontological research, especially paleoclimate, stratigraphy and vegetation history
- Biostratigraphic consultancy services especially for the petroleum industry