Lithospheric Imaging Tectonics and (geo)Hazards with Observational Seismology
@
Louisiana State University
The LITHOS group at Louisiana State University investigates the evolution of the Earth’s lithosphere across a wide range of tectonic settings and geologic timescales.
We are interested in understanding the feedbacks between lithospheric stress, deformation, metamorphism, and mass/fluid fluxes along developing plate boundaries and mature tectonic settings.
Our group primarily utilizes active-source marine seismic imaging, inversion, and interpretation to constrain the in situ properties of the lithosphere and study processes over geologic timescales as well as tectonic hazards.
tectonic settings we study
Subduction Zones
Subduction zones are the primary driver of plate tectonics and host the most devastating geologic hazards on our planet. We study how subduction zones initiate and terminate, their structure and properties, and controls on seismogenic slip behavior.
Continental rifts and rifted margins record the separation of continental crust leading to seafloor spreading. We want to understand the feedbacks between magmatism and extension, and what controls the diversity of rift development and lithospheric breakup.
Continental Rifting
Seafloor Spreading
Seafloor Spreading ridges are places where the asthenosphere melts and new oceanic lithosphere is formed. We investigate how spreading rates and hydrothermal circulation control alteration of the lithosphere and mantle flow beneath the ridge axis.
Transform Faults
Transform Faults accommodate oblique motion and allow plates to slide past each other. We are studying how these complex fault zones form, fluid-rock interactions that take place, and how they interact with other tectonic plate boundaries in 4-dimensions.
Now recruiting for Fall 2025
We are seeking motivated students and postdocs to join the LITHOS research group at LSU!
Current Opportunities: NSF-funded PhD position on mantle dynamics during early seafloor spreading in the Atlantic Ocean. Student will sail on the R/V Langseth to help acquire new marine seismic data in the western Atlantic to investigate inherited mantle properties and their affects on oceanic lithosphere during incipient seafloor spreading following the breakup of Pangea.
If you are interested in pursuing a graduate degree and working with our team, please get in touch by filling out this form or via email.