Crustal Processes

Studying the physical and transport properties of Earth’s crust determine its response to tectonic forces and the transfer of matter and energy from and to other elements of the Earth system.

The crust is the outermost solid shell of our planet. Although it represents only 1% of Earth’s volume, it is hugely important in every other sense. The crust is where earthquakes and volcanic eruptions happen, where igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks are formed, and where all mineral resources are found. The surface of the crust forms the dynamic landscapes that surround us.

We study how the mechanical, physical and transport properties of Earth’s crust determine its response to tectonic forces and the transfer of matter and energy from and to other elements of the Earth system – atmosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere and mantle. This work is pursued through experimental rock physics, seismology, geo- and thermochronology, field observations, ship-based geophysical measurements, analytical modelling and computer simulations.

Research Staff:

Dr Byron Adams, Prof Peter Clift, Dr Frances J. Cooper, Dr Matthew Fox, Dr Stephen Hicks, Dr Alex Lipp, Prof Tom Mitchell, Prof Graham Shields, Dr Brian Thomas, Prof Pieter Vermeesch, Dr David Wilson

We use these techniques to address pivotal issues in crustal evolution and dynamics where time and rates of deformation are key parameters in addition to pressure, stress and temperature.

Laboratories and Research Groups:

Associated research groups:
London Geochronology Centre
Rock & Ice Physics Laboratory
UCL Shale Gas Hub

The Earth Sciences department:
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Research Groups
PhD Opportunities