Michael R. Hudec

Dr. Michael R. Hudec is a Research Professor at the Bureau of Economic Geology, The University of Texas at Austin. He has been a Senior Research Scientist at the institution since 2000 and co-director of the Applied Geodynamics Laboratory (AGL) since 2002. His career spans academia at Baylor University (1997–2000) and industry experience at Exxon Production Research (1989–1997).

• B.A. Geology, Amherst College (1983)
• M.S. Geology, University of Southern California (1987)
• Ph.D. Geology, University of Wyoming (1990)

His research focuses on salt tectonics, particularly kinematic models for salt structure evolution. Key projects include analyzing rifting and basin formation on passive margins (Brazil, West Africa, Gulf of Mexico) and studying allochthonous salt sheets/canopies. He is currently co-authoring a monograph titled The Theory and Practice of Salt Tectonics.

Recent publications address salt-sediment interaction, minibasin subsidence, and seismic expression of mobile shales. Awards highlight his excellence in research and teaching, including multiple AAPG awards and Bureau of Economic Geology recognitions. He has mentored industry and academic research through AGL and continues to influence petroleum geology and structural dynamics.