Jeffrey Moore

Dr. Jeffrey Moore is a Professor in the Department of Geology & Geophysics at the University of Utah, where he leads the Geohazards research group. His work focuses on the mechanics of natural hazards, particularly rock slope failure, structural health monitoring of freestanding rock landforms, and landslide hazard assessment. With a PhD in Civil Engineering from UC Berkeley (2007), Moore has held academic positions at the University of Utah since 2013, advancing to Professor in 2024. He previously conducted research at ETH Zurich on rock slope monitoring.

• University of Utah, College of Engineering (2013–present)
• PhD in Civil Engineering, UC Berkeley (2007)

Moore’s research integrates field observations, ambient vibration monitoring, and numerical modeling to study rock mechanics, slope stability, and alpine geomorphology. His group specializes in structural health monitoring of rock arches and towers, using seismic resonance to detect damage progression. Current projects examine climate-driven rock slope instability, anthropogenic vibration impacts on geological structures, and hydromechanical effects of glacial cycles.

• Rock Slope Failure Mechanisms
• Seismic Resonance Monitoring
• Climate Change Geohazard Assessment
• Topographic Amplification Studies

His recent publications analyze fracture-controlled resonance modes, insolation-driven frequency drifts, and multi-stage landslide dynamics. Grants include NSF funding for structural health monitoring of national park arches and DOST grants for seismic characterization of rock instabilities. Moore received the L. Jackson Newell Liberal Arts and Sciences Fellowship in 2020.

• Teaches graduate thesis research courses
• Offers field geology and dynamic earth instruction
• Develops geologic engineering curricula