Max Dahlquist

Max Dahlquist is an Assistant Professor of Geology at Sewanee: The University of the South. His research focuses on geomorphology, erosion mechanisms, and landscape evolution, particularly exploring the role of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) in shaping Himalayan river valleys. He collaborates with institutions like the University of Southern California and uses innovative methods such as stream tables to simulate real-world geological processes. Dahlquist emphasizes undergraduate research involvement, fostering student engagement in projects like climate-driven erosion studies and rock fracturing analysis. His work bridges field observations, experimental modeling, and theoretical frameworks to address environmental and geological challenges.

Research Interests: Dahlquist investigates how extreme events like GLOFs influence river morphology and valley geometry, as well as the interplay between climate, rock fracturing, and landscape stability. His studies in the Himalayas and Antarctic McMurdo Dry Valleys highlight the impact of environmental parameters on rock degradation and erosion dynamics. He advocates for standardized field methods to advance fracture-focused research and integrate climatic variables into geomorphological models.

Publications: His recent work includes studies on rock memory of extreme temperatures, environmental controls on bedrock weathering, and subcritical fracture propagation. These contributions underscore the importance of understanding geological processes in the context of climate change and natural hazard mitigation.

Advising & Grants: Dahlquist actively engages undergraduates in research, offering hands-on opportunities in fieldwork and laboratory analysis. His projects often involve collaborations with national agencies like the National Science Foundation, leveraging grants to explore topics such as debris flow dynamics and tectonic boundary structures.