Tectonics,
Geodynamics, and Seismology
David Foster's research is
focused on the tectonic
evolution of continents, mountain belts, and extensional basins. He
uses the research tools of thermochronology, structural geology,
metamorphic petrology, and isotope geochemistry to understand the
processes involved in the evolution of continental crust and
large-scale earth features. Geochronologic and thermochronologic
dating methods (Ar-Ar, fission-track, U-Pb) are used extensively in
his research to directly date tectonic/thermal events, exhumation
rates, and movement along faults and shear zone. He is also
researching the relationships between tectonics and landscape
evolution. (Email;
Web Page)
Joe Meert's research is
aimed at deciphering the assembly
and breakup of Proterozoic-Early Paleozoic supercontinents using a
combination of paleomagnetism and geochronology. The research bears
directly on issues regarding ancient paleoclimates (such as the
Snowball Earth hypothesis), geodynamics (plate speed limits and true
polar wander) and the evolutionary pulse and the beginning of the
Phanerozoic. (Email;
Web Page)
Kyoungwon Kyle Min's research includes understanding pressure-temperature-time paths of various tectonic units to better document tectono-metamorphic evolutions. He also attempts to calibrate absolute time scales of the earth system history. (Email; Web Page).
Paul Mueller's research is directed towards developing a better understanding of the origin and evolution of continents and continental crust in particular. The primary focus involves detailed elemental, isotopic, and geochronologic analyses of Precambrian rocks from two principal areas, Northern Rocky Mountains and Southern Appalachian Mountains. These areas are particularly well suited to address fundamental questions concerning the segregation of continental crust from the mantle as well as its aggregation to form modern continents. In particular, crustal sections from these two areas are providing important insight into large scale geodynamic questions, such as supercontinent cycles (e.g., the formation and disruption of Laurentia and Rodinina). (Email;; Web Page)
Philip Neuhoff investigates the geologic history of large igneous provinces and their relationship to extensional tectonics. Systematic, regional mapping of very low grade metamorphic mineral assemblages provides a tool for discerning the timing of structural deformation, erosional loss, and paleo-orientations of flood basalt terrains. Current research focuses on subaerial plateau lavas in East and West Greenland and on Tertiary lava piles in Iceland, where three-dimensional exposures to crustal depths of a kilometer or more are available (Email: Email; Web Page)
Ray
Russo works
on tectonics and seismology with an emphasis on upper mantle flow and
lithosphere-asthenosphere interactions. With students and colleagues he
is
currently running a broadband seismic experiment aimed at understanding
subduction of the Chile Spreading Ridge beneath the southern Andes. (Email; Web Page)
University of Florida
Department of Geological Sciences
241 Williamson Hall
P.O. Box 112120
Gainesville, Florida 32611
Office: (352) 392-2231
Fax: (352) 392-9294
email: info@geology.ufl.edu
