Owen Weller
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About
Research Area
My background is in metamorphic petrology and my research encompasses a variety of themes, including quantifying the metamorphic and magmatic controls on ore deposit formation, analysing the igneous and metamorphic rock record to investigate the development of plate tectonics, and interrogating the evolution and behaviour of mountain belts. As I have recently developed new phase equilibria models for alkaline-silicate magmatic systems, I am currently particularly interested in using these new models to develop an understanding of rare-earth element deposits associated with these systems. I also have a developing interest in the formation of lithium deposits associated with the partial melting of metasedimentary rocks.
As a former employee of the Geological Survey of Canada, my approach is commonly rooted in field and petrographic observations, and I typically integrate phase equilibria modelling, thermal modelling, high-temperature geochronology, and a variety of major and trace element microanalytical techniques. I enjoy collaborations with geophysicists, volcanologists, and experimental petrologists to enable a multi-disciplinary approach to a wide range of problems.
Project Interests
I would be happy to develop projects in a wide range of petrological areas. At present, I am particularly interested in understanding the formation of rare-earth element deposits associated with alkaline-silicate magmatic systems, with ongoing field and research links in Greenland, Namibia, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire and Scotland. I also have longstanding interests in analysing tectonic processes through time, primarily through the analysis of suites of metamorphic rocks, with ongoing field and research links in Canada.