James Thompson

James Thompson is a Research Assistant Professor at the Jackson School of Geosciences, University of Texas at Austin, affiliated with the Bureau of Economic Geology and the State of Texas Advanced Resource Recovery (STARR) program. He serves as principal investigator (PI) for a NASA FireSense Technology project.

• Ph.D., Geology and Environmental Science, University of Pittsburgh, 2020
• M.Sc., Volcanology, University of Bristol, 2015
• B.Sc., Geology, University of Southampton, 2014

His research focuses on thermodynamics of geological processes, infrared spectroscopy, and geohazards, with applications in multi-scale land surface modeling and remote sensing. He develops miniature thermal infrared (TIR) imaging systems for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to study wildfire behavior and gas flux rates (SO₂, CO₂, NH₃), advancing ecosystem and air quality impact assessments.

Recent publications highlight his work in volcanology, orbital data analysis, and geological process modeling. Key keywords include geology, remote sensing, and geophysics.

Scientific Awards

• NASA Pre-Doctoral Fellowship (2017-2020)

James collaborates with institutions like Baylor University, University of Pittsburgh, and University of Colima (Mexico) through prior roles. His work intersects with STARR, energy-water nexus studies, and geological sequestration of greenhouse gases.