Gill is a volcanologist from the UK and after researching magma physics for her PhD, she
started work at the British Geological Survey. There she worked on a variety of projects
including exploring for gold and base metals in Europe, environmental geochemistry in
China and monitoring the eruption of Soufriere Hills volcano in Montserrat. In 2006 she
moved to NZ to work at GNS Science (now ESNZ) where she held various positions
including volcanology department manager and head of the natural hazards division. These
roles included leading teams through New Zealand and SW Pacific eruptions and the
response to the 2016 M7.8 Kaikōura Earthquake. Since July 2023, she has been seconded
to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment as their Chief Science Advisor.
MBIE is a large ministry that includes policy and operations on topics as diverse as science,
energy, tourism and immigration. The CSA role is busy and challenging, and a real privilege
to work at the interface between policy, science and politics.