Meet PLOS Climate Academic Editor Amber Boot

In this interview, we get to know Amber Boot of the Technical University of Denmark, who recently joined PLOS Climate as an Academic Editor in the journal’s Climate Resilience, Extremes and Tipping Points section.

Could you tell us about your research background and your current work?

My background is in climate physics, with a particular focus on physical oceanography. Over the course of my career, my research has expanded from the physics of ocean circulation to include marine biogeochemistry, marine ecosystems, and fisheries.

During my PhD, I investigated interactions between ocean circulation, specifically the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), and the marine carbon cycle. Both are highly nonlinear systems, making their dynamics both challenging and fascinating to study. I combined simple box models with mathematical techniques to identify stable states and potential bifurcations, while also using complex Earth System Models (ESMs) to examine these interactions under climate change scenarios. Combining models of different complexities is something I find particularly interesting and useful.

Building on this work, I extended my research to explore the impacts of ocean circulation changes on marine ecosystems. This involved coupling a global Marine Ecosystem Model (MEM) with an ESM and collaborating closely with marine ecosystem modelers. I particularly enjoy this interdisciplinary approach, which led my research to also include impacts on fisheries. I think such interdisciplinary approaches are vital to better understand the impacts of the climate crisis on life on Earth, including society.

My current goal is to establish a research group focused on understanding how extreme climate events, ranging from recurring events driven by internal climate variability to irreversible tipping points, affect marine biogeochemistry, ecosystems, fisheries, and their broader socio-economic consequences under climate change. I aim to do this with a lens that appreciates diversity, equity, inclusion and justice.

Why did you decide to join PLOS Climate as an Academic Editor?

Publishing remains important in academic research, yet aspects of the current publishing system can be improved. What attracts me to PLOS Climate is its commitment to open access and its association with a non-profit organization. I also value the journal’s efforts to amplify diverse perspectives across dimensions such as career stage and disciplinary background. In addition, its strong emphasis on multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary research aligns closely with my own scientific interests. I’m excited to contribute to this mission.

What kinds of submissions to PLOS Climate would you encourage?

I believe that interdisciplinary approaches are essential for addressing the climate crisis. I would therefore encourage submissions that bridge disciplinary boundaries and connect different components of the Earth system. Research that integrates natural and social sciences is especially valuable for understanding and responding to complex climate challenges.