About
Christopher C. Barton is a Professor of Earth and Environmental Sciences at Wright State University's College of Science & Mathematics. He is a pioneer in the identification and quantification of nonlinear dynamics and complexity in earth, environmental, human, and economic systems. Dr. Barton founded the Wright State University Complex Systems Research Group, which brings together faculty and students conducting research on Complex Systems.
- Education: Ph.D. (1983), M.Phil. (1977), M.S. (1976) from Yale University
- Post-doctoral fellow at U.C. Berkeley
- Senior research scientist and project chief at USGS (1984-2004)
- Investigator at Hubbard Brook Ecosystem Study since 1990
Dr. Barton's research focuses on the mathematical analysis of temporal and spatial complexity using fractals, chaos, and complexity theory. His work spans fluid flow through fractured rock masses, shoreline dynamics, Earth's magnetic field reversals, river discharge patterns, ice floe size distributions, and precipitation travel time through watersheds. He is particularly known for applying fractal mathematics to geological fracture networks and petroleum resource assessment. His recent publications show a strong focus on fault analysis, Arctic sea ice dynamics, cephalopod paleontology, and coastal sediment transport, demonstrating the breadth of his application of complex systems theory.
Scientific contributions include:
- USGS G.K. Gilbert Fellow (twice at IBM with Benoit Mandelbrot)
- Editorial Board member for Fractals journal (2004-present)
- President of Nonlinear Geophysics Section of American Geophysical Union
- Co-Director of Colombia Consortium for Risk Management in a Changing Environment (2000-present)
Dr. Barton has advised numerous graduate students in earth sciences research, particularly in areas related to fracture analysis and complex systems. His teaching includes courses on Dynamic Earth, Analysis and Prediction of Complex Natural and Human Systems, and Structural Geology. He has authored over 70 research papers and edited multiple books on fractals in earth sciences, establishing himself as a leading figure in applying mathematical complexity theory to geological and environmental systems.
