Jenny Jenkins

Dr. Jenny Jenkins is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Earth Sciences at Durham University, specializing in deep Earth structure through seismic imaging techniques. Her research addresses fundamental questions about mantle convection, crustal formation, and core-mantle boundary dynamics using observational seismology.

Education:

• PhD in Deep Earth Seismology, University of Cambridge (2013-2017)
• MESci Geophysics with Geology, University of Liverpool (2009-2013)

Research Focus: Employing an observation-driven approach, Dr. Jenkins investigates seismic discontinuities, mantle plumes, and subduction zones. Her work integrates body wave seismic imaging, ambient noise analysis, and mineral physics to unravel Earth's structure from crustal to core-mantle boundary scales. Current projects target ultra-low velocity zones (ULVZs) and their role in planetary dynamics.

Publication Trends: Recent work (2016-2025) shows evolving focus from Icelandic crustal studies to deep Earth heterogeneities, with increasing emphasis on ULVZ characterization near Hawaii. Her research bridges fundamental seismology with applied contexts like geothermal systems and infrastructure monitoring, demonstrating methodological innovation across geophysical subdisciplines.

Scientific Recognition:

• 2018 Keith Runcorn Prize - Royal Astronomical Society PhD Thesis prize

Mentorship & Service: Actively supervises graduate students while championing diversity through leadership in Durham's Earth Science EDI Group and the Unlearning Racism in Geoscience (URGE) initiative. Her departmental roles reflect commitment to inclusive geoscience practices and educational outreach.

Ongoing Research: Developing advanced seismic imaging techniques to map ULVZ morphology at kilometer-scale resolution, with implications for understanding mantle thermochemical structure and core-mantle interactions.