Richard A Ketcham

Richard A Ketcham is a Professor in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at the Jackson School of Geosciences, University of Texas at Austin, holding the Chevron Centennial Professorship in Geology. His research focuses on computational methods applied to geological problems, including high-resolution X-ray CT for multidisciplinary studies (e.g., paleontology, planetary science) and apatite fission-track thermochronology. He leads a state-of-the-art fission-track laboratory and collaborates on lunar sample analysis (ANGSA program) and Martian meteorite studies via the UTCT facility. His work integrates thermal history modeling, numerical simulations of metamorphic processes, and continental thermal structure analysis. Ketcham emphasizes data transparency, student mentorship (prioritizing quantitative skills), and open-science tools for 3D geomaterial data.

Research areas include:

• X-ray CT applications in geology, planetary science, and materials analysis
• Fission-track and (U-Th)/He thermochronology
• Numerical modeling of crystal growth and tectonic processes
• Lunar and Martian geology through ANGSA and meteorite studies
• Thermal evolution of mountain belts and continental lithosphere
• Development of open-source software for geological data analysis

His recent work addresses lunar soil clods, Martian magma emplacement, Andean tectonics, and the exhumation history of high-pressure ophiolites. He actively participates in international thermochronology conferences and guides interdisciplinary collaborations between geologists, engineers, and data scientists.