Kevin M. Ward

Dr. Kevin M. Ward is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Geology and Geological Engineering at South Dakota School of Mines & Technology (SDSMT). With a Ph.D. from the University of Arizona (2016), his research focuses on observational seismology and continental tectonics, particularly in active orogenic systems and subduction zones. He teaches courses in geophysics, volcanology, and tectonics, including upcoming GEOL 308 Geological Disasters and Society and GEOL 737 Global Seismology.

• Education: Ph.D., University of Arizona (2016)

His research employs seismic imaging techniques to study magmatic systems, subduction zone dynamics, and lithospheric evolution. Recent projects include high-resolution imaging across the Cascadia subduction zone (NSF-funded) and Yellowstone's hydrothermal systems.

Current research trends span subduction zone segmentation, magma reservoir characterization, and continental lithospheric deformation, utilizing ambient noise tomography, receiver function analysis, and joint inversion methods. His work has been published in leading journals like Geophysical Research Letters and Journal of Geophysical Research: Solid Earth.

Scientific Awards:

• NSF Geophysics Award #1946396 (2020-2024) for Cascadia2020 project

Students: Mentors graduate and undergraduate researchers, including Spencer Larsen (M.S. 2022) and Hannah Duncan (B.S. 2019), with opportunities for fieldwork in Alaska, Yellowstone, and Cascadia.