My research focuses on using 40Ar/39Ar geochronology to address a diverse suite of scientific questions. Currently, our research team are working on the following topics:
Unraveling the geodynamic origin of the Line Islands Volcanic Lineament and associated cross-island trends. This work is being completed through a combination of 40Ar/39Ar geochronology, isotope geochemistry and Pacific plate motion modeling.
Geologic mapping of the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monuments using submarine ROV footage and recovered geologic samples. This project focuses on interpreting the history and origin of volcanic and authigenic sedimentary rocks within the Johnston Atoll, Kingman Reef, Palmyra Atoll and Jarvis Island national monuments.
Determining the ages of the Corner Rise Seamounts and their role in North Atlantic Basin evolution.
Investigating the timing and origin of the Geologist Seamounts (aka South Hawaiian Seamounts) through coupled 40Ar/39Ar geochronology and isotope geochemistry.
A bathymetric map of the Mid-Pacific with US EEZ shown with red outlines. The area of US Marine National Monuments are shown with blue shading. My research team is currently working on developing geologic maps of the Kingman Reef/Palmyra Atoll, Jarvis Island, Rose Atoll and Johnston Atoll Units of the Pacific Remote Island Marine National Monuments.