I research the mechanics and microstructures of deforming rocks to decipher the microphysical controls on geodynamic processes.
Research Area
Geodynamic processes operating over human timescales, such as postseismic deformation and anthropogenic glacial isostatic adjustment, apply rapid changes in stress to rocks at high temperatures in the lower crust and upper mantle. Unlike the long-term deformation associated with many tectonic processes, which can be assumed to involve steady-state flow, these rapid events involve non-steady-state deformation. Both laboratory experiments and geodetic observations indicate that rocks deforming in these contexts undergo transient creep, whereby viscosity evolves with strain/time. Modelling transient creep is therefore of critical importance to understanding the behaviour of the solid earth over human timescales. However, the microscale processes that control transient creep of the key geological minerals remain poorly constrained. As such, it is difficult to parameterise models of transient creep in a manner that captures the essential microphysics, limiting our confidence in extrapolations of such models from the conditions under which they are calibrated in the laboratory to the conditions prevailing during deformation in the lower crust and upper mantle. My research aims to address this knowledge gap through a combination of deformation experiments, microstructural observations, and development of microphysical models to better analyse and predict the behaviour of the solid earth over human to tectonic timescales.
Project Interests
I am interested in developing projects in the broad area of rock deformation. My current main focus is on transient creep at high temperatures but my ongoing work spans low and high temperatures and human to tectonic timescales. I am interested in developing new projects focussing on any of these aspects. Experimental tools available include a 1600°C creep apparatus and a 600°C in-situ deformation stage for the scanning electron microscope. Microstructural techniques include high-angular resolution electron backscatter diffraction. I am particularly interested in developing projects that investigate the links between mechanical behaviours, microstructures, and microphysical models.
