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Mineral Physics research:
My primary research focuses on the
micro-mechanical behavior of rocks and minerals. Although
it might seem surprising, the processes that occur at the
micro scale – the scale of single grains, grain boundaries
and crystal defects – govern a rock’s behavior
at larger scales. So for example, mantle convection, earthquakes,
and metamorphism are all controlled at least in part by micro-scale
processes. I use a combination of three approaches in my research:
high-pressure experimentation, microscopic observation and
numerical modeling. Each approach informs the others in a
unique way. Experiments allow the precise temperature, pressure
and stress state associated with a given behavior to be known.
Microscopic observations made with Transmission Electron Microscopy
(TEM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and sometime plain
old optical microscopes allow one determine how a given behavior
is accommodated at the level of the crystal lattice. Numerical
modeling allows for the visualization of stress, strain, and
volume changes in situations where complex geometry makes
intuitive visualization subject to error. For more information
on my recent and current work, please see my web
page.
Geoscience education and outreach:
I decided to become a geologist because as a young person
I found the way the Earth works inherently beautiful. Studying
geology gave me a way to feel connected to that beauty and
a way of feeling at home no matter where I am – at least
so long as I can get outside. Being a geologist has also made
me aware of how important the geosciences are for human kind.
We are all components in the Earth system. Understanding that
system, how it works and how we fit in, is just as essential
to the longevity of the human species as medicine is to the
well being of individuals. Having said this, it should not
be a surprise that I am interested in outreach and education.
Shouldn’t every student have the opportunity to learn
about how beautiful Earth is or how essential it is for us
all to appreciate our place in the Earth system? Currently
I am working on two education projects: ACRES and Georgia
State’s integrated science sequence for middle school
teachers. ACRES, which stands for the Atlanta Consortium for
Research in the Earth Science, is a collaborative effort,
which includes geoscience faculty from GSU, Georgia Perimeter
College, Berry College, Columbus State University and Fort
Valley State University. We run a summer REU program, which
you can learn more about by visiting our website.
The integrated science sequence for middle school teachers
was envisioned and designed by a group of education and natural
science faculty who were asked to figure out if GSU’s
middle school teaching students were getting the science background
they needed to teach middle school science. Our answer was
‘not consistently’, so we set about to correct
the situation; the integrated science sequence is the result.
Since geology was one of the sciences that were often overlooked,
I have been heavily involved in this effort. You can have
a look at the website
for the course sequence (NSCI3001, 3002 & 3003).
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For Undergraduates and MS students:
The use of fluid inclusions, hydrothermal veins and retrograde
alteration to study the post-orogenic history of the Southern
Appalachian Piedmont
The effect of chemistry on mechanical twinnig in amphiboles
Finite element modeling of volume changes and decrepitation
of fluid inclusions
The impact of a research experience on undergraduate's attitudes
towards science
For Ph.D students (funded research):
In-situ studies of rock deformation and phase transformation
at high temperature and pressure
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