Volcanology Staff

I am a volcanologist and the ambition at the centre of my research is the reduction of risk and prevention of disaster in volcanic settings. My research focuses on both the fundamental physical understanding of volcanic processes, often using petrological methods, and on the integrative interdisciplinary research necessary to understand and tackle the core drivers of disaster losses.

My research focuses on using satellite data to study ground deformation and topographic changes due to volcanic, magmatic, anthropogenic and tectonic processes. I work closely with volcano observatories and space agencies to improve the availability and uptake of satellite data for volcano monitoring. I am developing machine learning approaches to manage very large datasets with applications to global volcano monitoring and detecting more localised deformation in the UK. I have worked extensively on the tectonics of the East African Rift, from the fault systems of Malawi to the magmatic systems of Ethiopia and Kenya.

I manage the experimental petrology facilities, with projects ranging from planetary mantle petrology, crustal processes such as magma mushes through to volcanology, with a particular interest in the role of volatiles and more recently rheology. Other current research interests include ash damage in jet engines, survival of DNA and organic material during diagenesis and the environmental impact of mining ‘sulphide smoker’ deposits from mid-ocean ridges. I have a keen interest pushing experimental boundaries by designing new experimental equipment in close collaboration with our workshop.

My research focuses on volcanic and natural hazards. I use mathematical modelling and laboratory experimentation to develop physics-based models of volcanic activity and to predict hazard impacts and quantify risk. I often work in multidisciplinary teams to improve understanding of the social, physical and political dimensions of disaster risk more broadly.

I study the deposits from volcanic eruptions, and the processes which form them. I use experiments and fieldwork to understand the hazards posed by explosive volcanoes to their surrounding areas. I am particularly interested in how volcanoes interact with the marine realm, and understanding how varied stratigraphy controls the mechanics and behaviour of volcanic sediment at different scales.

I use laboratory experiments, theory and the geologic record to study the physical evolution of magmatic systems and volcanic hazards. Topics range from subvolcanic fluid dynamics, the breaking apart of magma during explosive eruptions, and the dispersal of fine ash fragments through the atmosphere.

I study volcanic emissions in order to better understand volcanic processes, hazards and environmental impacts. I use ground- UAV- and satellite-based imagery to quantify volcanic gases and ash. I specialise in Central American volcanism and work closely with government agencies there to build capacity in order to reduce risk.