Duncan A. Young

Duncan A. Young serves as a Research Associate Professor at the University of Texas Institute for Geophysics (UTIG), part of the University of Texas at Austin's Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences. His expertise spans Antarctic ice sheet dynamics and planetary exploration of Jupiter's moon Europa, conducting field research on ice-penetrating radar applications for both terrestrial and extraterrestrial environments.

His academic credentials include:

• Ph.D. in Geology from Southern Methodist University
• B.S. in Geological Sciences from University of Canterbury, New Zealand

Young's research centers on radioglaciology and planetary geophysics, employing airborne geophysical surveys to investigate Antarctic subglacial hydrology, ice sheet evolution, and ancient ice preservation. He actively applies terrestrial analogs from Antarctica to interpret Europa's ice shell structure through NASA's Europa Clipper mission. His work integrates radar sounding, gravity, and magnetic data to map subglacial geology and ice-ocean interactions, with significant contributions to the NSF-funded Center for Oldest Ice Exploration (COLDEX).

Analysis of his 2025 publications reveals concentrated expertise in Antarctic ice sheet dynamics and Europa exploration. Key methodologies include advanced radar reflectometry for subsurface characterization, multi-sensor geophysical integration, and development of the Open Polar Radar framework. His research addresses critical questions in sea level rise projections, ice sheet stability mechanisms, and extraterrestrial habitability through projects like COLDEX and REASON.

Young leads major collaborative initiatives:

• Instrument science team member for REASON radar on NASA's Europa Clipper mission
• Principal investigator for NSF COLDEX aerogeophysical surveys in East Antarctica
• Lead scientist for UT-led aerial surveys revealing ancient subglacial landscapes

His laboratory operates the Open Polar Radar system at UTIG's J.J. Pickle Research Campus, conducting field campaigns across Antarctica while developing radar technologies for planetary exploration missions. Current efforts focus on optimizing ice core site selection and advancing radar techniques for Europa's ice shell characterization.