I identify as an igneous and metamorphic petrologist, and an isotope geochemist. Most of my research relates to mass transfer and processing in subduction zones. I am interested in all aspects of subduction - from sediment ingestion into the trench, to the metamorphic reactions (especially dehydration reactions) that take place in the downgoing slab, to mantle metasomatism and melting, to the magmatic and volcanic processes taking place at all depths in the arc crust. Beyond subduction-related processes, I am also interested in large mafic igneous provinces including Iceland and the Bushveld / Rustenburg Layered Suite. Recently, I have been dabbling in critical element resources in Pennsylvania including lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements.
Current Research / Funded Projects:
E-FIRE (ExTerra Field Institutes and Research Endeavor) Partnership for International Research and Education. The E-FIRE project, now nearing completion, funded 11 PhD students and postdoctoral scholars at US institutions to conduct field work in the Western Alps and Voltri Massif (France and Italy) in collaboration with European partners. The scientific themes of this project included fluid transfer, reaction timescales, and rheological properties of materials at the slab interface and mantle regions of a fossil subduction zone.
I identify as an igneous and metamorphic petrologist, and an isotope geochemist. Most of my research relates to mass transfer and processing in subduction zones. I am interested in all aspects of subduction - from sediment ingestion into the trench, to the metamorphic reactions (especially dehydration reactions) that take place in the downgoing slab, to mantle metasomatism and melting, to the magmatic and volcanic processes taking place at all depths in the arc crust. Beyond subduction-related processes, I am also interested in large mafic igneous provinces including Iceland and the Bushveld / Rustenburg Layered Suite. Recently, I have been dabbling in critical element resources in Pennsylvania including lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements.
Values:
In my group, we believe that science is for everyone. I strive to create an inclusive and welcoming environment, and expect the same of my students and collaborators. I encourage students to think independently and creatively, which sometimes means making mistakes. I challenge myself and my students to grow by stepping outside of our relative comfort zones.