Research

The relationship between fluids and mountain-belt formation within the Sevier Fold-Thrust Belt, Wyoming

Fluid migrations affect both orogenic evolution and the rheological, mechanical, and geochemical properties of rocks. I use O, C, H isotopes, fluid inclusion thermochronology, field mapping, and structural analysis to study (1) what drives fluid migration through and out of fold-thrust belts, (2) the origin of fluids, and (3) migration paths. The aim is to develop a robust model of the relationship between fluid migration and mountain-belt formation. Future research directions include determining the timing of major deformation events using U-Pb LA-ISPMS dating of calcite veins related to fluid migrations.

Analog modeling of structural evolution

Current work, using sandbox or claybox models, focuses on the energy balance and deformation mechanisms of duplex formation in fold-thrust belts, characterizing the structural and geo-mechanical conditions under which duplexes form. Students who have worked on this project: Gage Williams ’24.

Determining structural controls on subsurface coal fires

The Centralia Mine subsurface coal fire acts as a case study to build an understanding of the propagation of subsurface coal fires; we use this understanding to develop new coal-fire mitigation techniques. Thousands of coal fires are currently burning around the world, producing not less than 3% of the world’s estimated annual carbon dioxide emissions, in addition to being environmentally and socially devastating locally.

Thermal history of the Lackawanna Synclinorium

We are using mapping, fluid inclusion analysis, raman spectroscopy, SEM, and Cathodoluminescence to determine the thermal and burial history of the Lackawanna Synclinorium, with the goal of answering a long standing question of valley and ridge geology– how anthracite coals were produce during the Late Paleozoic Alleghanian orogeny. Kaylee Baker ’26.

Field mapping within the West Virginia Valley and Ridge

I work with undergraduate or master’s degree students to map portions of the state of West Virginia.