Dynamic Earth

We study continental breakup, seafloor spreading and subduction and the accompanying deformation and magmatism. We examine how melting relates to mantle processes, how magma is emplaced in the crust, how it has erupted at the surface, and the accompanying release of greenhouse and other environmentally important gases. We investigate the physical mechanisms behind geological hazards, the impact of those hazards on surrounding environments and their implications for society. As both tectonic and magmatic processes influence climate and oceanic circulation, our research has strong links with the Palaeoclimatology and Palaeoceanography group, and through impacts on life, e.g., extinctions with the Palaeobiology group.

Research is supported by leadership of field work on land and scientific cruises at sea, and by participation in large-scale experiments including scientific drilling (both International Continental Drilling Program ICDP and International Ocean Discovery Program – IODP).