Research Themes

My research aims to illuminate fundamental aspects or behaviors of the solid Earth. Using multi-disciplinary methods from across rock physics, geophysics, geomechanics, geochemistry, and paleomagnetism, my previous research has found novel insights explaining the dynamic processes at play for two active volcanoes in New Zealand, the Alpine Fault, as well as carbon-dioxide sequestration sites. Particularly, my research has shown mechanisms leading to pre-eruptive pressure build-up at volcanoes, established links between geological processes and their geophysical signatures to aid monitoring of hydrothermally altered regions, shown the complex interplay between hydrothermal alteration and dome stability, characterized the mineralogy and fracture network at active fault zones, and explained the rock structural changes that can occur due to carbon-dioxide sequestration in volcanic reservoirs.

The tools I have used so far involve lab-based and computational methods for measuring various rock properties of interest to answer various questions. Specifically, these include lab-based petrophysical and geophysical rock characterization (e.g., porosity, permeability, P-S- wave velocities, XRD, XRF, X-ray maps, ICPMS, EDS, EPMA, thin sections, micro-CT, magnetic susceptibility, NRM), computational methods (e.g., limit equilibrium methods). I'm always learning new tools that can help my research. Recently, I obtained certifications in using space/airborne analytical techniques like InSAR for natural hazards research and completed a micro-credential in machine learning methods. I am now integrating these into my study.

While I have been focused on specific areas of research listed below, I am always open to exploring new questions. I believe that the best research is often a collaborative effort, and I welcome the opportunity to work with others to better characterize and monitor the Earth's dynamic subsurface environments. Your ideas and insights are always valued in my research.