Krista Soderlund

Krista Soderlund is a Research Associate Professor at the University of Texas at Austin, affiliated with the University of Texas Institute for Geophysics (UTIG). Her work bridges planetary science and geophysics, focusing on fluid dynamics in celestial bodies.

• Ph.D., University of California, Los Angeles
• B.S., Florida Institute of Technology

Her research explores planetary interiors, particularly the origin and evolution of magnetic fields in Mercury and the Moon, convection in Uranus and Neptune, and geophysical processes in icy satellites like Europa and Enceladus. She investigates tidal heating, ocean circulation, and ice-shell dynamics.

Krista's recent publications highlight numerical simulations of dynamos, radar characterization of ice shells, and sediment dynamics on ocean world seafloors. Her work intersects with NASA's Europa Clipper mission, where she contributes expertise in ice-penetrating radar and planetary habitability.

Krista collaborates with institutions such as NASA and the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences. She participates in initiatives like the Ice Giant Systems Seminar Series and contributes to planetary exploration strategies outlined in reports like Planetary Exploration Horizon 2061.

Her role in science communication and community building includes developing codes of conduct for inclusive research environments and promoting diversity in planetary science.