Links
Research
I am interested in using seismology, combined with mineral physics
and geodynamical modeling, to understand the mantle's physical
properties, flow, and interaction with the crust. Topics to
interest to me are hotspots, mantle plumes, and convective rolls;
lithospheric strength boundaries and their role in strain partitioning;
the mantle's role in past and present western U.S. tectonics and
deformation; and the effect of petrological variations on the dynamical
origin of mantle structure.
Right now my research is focused along two paths.
- The geophysical implication of composition in the upper mantle. We are trying to better understand the effects of compositional variations in the upper mantle, such as melt depletion and pyroxene enrichment, on the seismic velocity and density of the upper mantle. Our data come from xenoliths and experiments, and have implications for the stability of subcontinental lithospheric mantle, particularly below cold cratons.
- Yellowstone and Wyoming Craton
seismology. Using a variety of techniques, we are
trying to understand the physical state of the Yellowstone Plume and
the Wyoming Craton from the crust to the Core-Mantle boundary.