for all the (endless) discussions and the great times we shared through the MATERA project. Lightening up everyday life at work with (occasional) scientific discussions, but most importantly lunch, coffee and hogwash: a big thank you to Amund, Ina, Ingvild, Jon Magnus, Kristian and Øystein. I am also grateful to my mother, father, sister, brother-in-law and two nieces for their patience and support. The same goes for all my friends outside work-especially my "extended family" Bente, Eivind, Helle and Jon: thank you for providing a mental refuge from studies and work. Every ph.d. student has supervisors. Luckily, mine have been encouraging and helpful. Thank you, Helmer and Ola, for all your guidance and support, and the opportunities you have given me. Professor Dr. Nilsen deserves special attention. He has gone far beyond his supervising duties, and I have come to know him both as a friend and as an employer. His scientific knowledge is extraordinary, and only eclipsed by his infectious enthusiasm, curiosity and big heart. Motivating me must have felt like a Sisyphean undertaking at times, but you managed to pull me through. For that, you have my biggest gratitude. Finally, Henrik. I am not sure if this thesis would have been finished without your enormous support, both academically and mentally. We share an interest for all kinds of knowledge, obscure as it may be. I also believe we are masters of the highly unacknowledged art of switching seamlessly between poppycock and rationality. Thank you for all the help you have provided, in all forms. I hope we find time for more mischief and adventures in the future.