Tom Merry

Dr. Tom Merry is a Research Fellow in the Department of Earth Sciences at the University of Cambridge, affiliated with the Bullard Laboratories. His research focuses on understanding upper mantle dynamics, the Iceland plume, and seismic anisotropy using advanced seismological techniques. He leads projects involving ocean-bottom seismometers (e.g., the SEA-SEIS network) to investigate mantle structure, deformation, and temperature variations in regions like the North Atlantic and Eastern Mediterranean.

Key research themes include:

• Mantle transition zone structure and temperature
• Shear-wave splitting for upper mantle deformation analysis
• Seismic anisotropy in tectonically active regions (e.g., Cyprus, Anatolia)
• Multi-disciplinary seismological imaging of subduction zones and faults

Recent work highlights include:

• Quantifying mantle flow patterns beneath Africa using quasi-Love wave scattering
• Analyzing seismicity at the Hikurangi Margin in New Zealand
• Unraveling lithospheric strain fabrics in the Eastern Mediterranean through shear-wave splitting

Collaborates with leading researchers such as Prof. Sanne Cottaar and Prof. Sergei Lebedev. Currently based at the Wolfson Building, Madingley Rise, Cambridge.