Michael P. Lamb

Michael P. Lamb is a Professor of Geology at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), affiliated with the Division of Geological and Planetary Sciences. He holds a B.S. from the University of Minnesota (2001), M.S. from the University of Washington (2004), and Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley (2008). Since 2009, he has been at Caltech, advancing from Assistant Professor to his current rank.

His research focuses on sedimentary and geomorphic processes shaping Earth, Mars, and Titan. Key areas include waterfall erosion, mountain stream dynamics, river terrace formation, and planetary surface evolution. Current projects involve Arctic river responses to climate change, delta dynamics under sea-level rise, and Martian fluvial history. Applications span environmental management, hazard mitigation, and planetary science.

Leading the Lamb Surface Processes Group, his work integrates field measurements, remote sensing, topographic analysis, and modeling. Research themes include debris-flow mechanics, submarine canyon formation, and ancient Earth landscapes. The group collaborates on planetary surface interpretations, contributing to missions like Mars exploration.

His lab addresses pressing issues such as carbon cycling in floodplains and the geologic record of Earth’s history. While no specific awards are listed, his contributions to geomorphology and planetary science are evident through active grants and collaborations.