Matt Hornbach

Matt Hornbach is a Research Professor in the Department of Earth Sciences at Southern Methodist University (SMU). He holds adjunct faculty status and specializes in geophysics, marine geology, and geohazards. His academic background includes a Ph.D. in Geophysics from the University of Wyoming (2005) and postdoctoral research at the University of Texas Institute for Geophysics (2005-2010).

Research interests focus on heat flow dynamics, methane hydrates, induced seismicity, and submarine geohazards. He integrates numerical modeling with field data to address issues like climate change impacts on permafrost, fluid flow in sedimentary basins, and submarine landslide mechanisms. Key projects include the Lesser Antilles Volcanism and Landslides (IODP Leg 340), Arctic Ocean gas hydrate stability (DOE-funded), and geohazard assessments in Jamaica (SEG-GWB).

Teaching responsibilities include courses like Introduction to Oceanography, Exploration Seismology, and Applied Geophysics. He leads the SMU Geothermal Lab, developing heat flow probes (e.g., POGO and STRING probes) and collaborating on sensor technology for real-time seafloor monitoring.

Funded research projects highlight interdisciplinary work, such as investigating pore pressure-driven seismicity in Texas and analyzing methane hydrate dynamics in Alaska. His fieldwork spans global sites, including the Caribbean, Arctic, and Pacific margins. Recent studies emphasize societal relevance, such as assessing seismic risks from wastewater injection and predicting climate-driven changes in permafrost and snowpack.