Jeffrey Ryan

Jeffrey Ryan is a Professor in the School of Geosciences at the University of South Florida (USF), within the College of Arts and Sciences. He specializes in geochemical analysis of rocks to understand Earth's dynamic processes, particularly focusing on subduction zones and fluid-rock interactions. Ryan manages the USF Center for Geochemical Analysis and is a core user of the Florida Center for Analytical Electron Microscopy (FCAEM). His research involves studying metamorphic rocks and arc lavas in subduction settings, using isotopes like boron to trace fluid sources. He has led or co-PI'd multiple National Science Foundation (NSF) grants, including projects on remote microscopy education and the Noyce Scholarship Program. Ryan has been recognized with prestigious awards such as the Carnegie Foundation Professor of the Year (1999) and the USF Phi Kappa Phi Artist/Scholar Award (2000).

Education:

• M.A., M.Phil., Ph.D. in Geochemistry, Columbia University (1983–1989)
• B.S. in Geology, Western Carolina University (1978–1983)

Research Interests: Ryan’s work centers on tracing fluid-mobile elements (B, Cs, As) and isotopes in subduction zones to understand slab-derived water fluxes and their impact on magma generation. He investigates shallow forearc metamorphic rocks and arc lavas, with recent focus on the Mariana Trench and South China Sea via IODP Expeditions. His contributions include analyzing serpentinite mud volcanoes and seamounts to study fluid-rock exchange in subduction settings.

Publications and Trends: Recent articles explore subduction dynamics, mantle wedge processes, and educational strategies. Key themes include tracking volatile cycling, slab dehydration, and the role of serpentinites in Earth’s deep carbon cycle. Ryan’s work bridges field, analytical, and educational research, emphasizing undergraduate involvement in IODP sample analysis.

Awards and Recognition:

• USF Outstanding Undergraduate Teacher Award (1997)
• Carnegie Foundation/CASE Florida Professor of the Year (1999)
• USF Phi Kappa Phi Artist/Scholar Award (2000)
• USF President’s Award for Faculty Excellence (2003)
• Academic and Professional Achievement Award, Western Carolina University (2009)

Advising and Grants: Ryan has advised students like Ray Johnston (Mariana forearc studies) and Antonio Luna (slow-spreading ocean crust comparisons). He secured NSF grants for educational innovation and geoscience workforce development, including projects on virtualizing undergraduate research and adapting geoscience curricula for diverse audiences.

Labs and Collaborations: Ryan’s research leverages advanced facilities like the ICP-MS and SEM at FCAEM. He collaborates on international expeditions, such as IODP 366 (Mariana forearc) and 367-368 (South China Sea), to integrate fieldwork, lab analysis, and student mentorship.