Richard White

Prof. Richard White is the Head of School and Professor of Earth Sciences at the University of St Andrews' School of Earth & Environmental Sciences. His research focuses on metamorphic processes in continental crust evolution during orogenesis, integrating fieldwork, petrology, geochemistry, geochronology, and thermodynamic modeling. He leads projects like the NERC-funded LA:TRACE initiative, advancing laser-based chemical imaging techniques.

Research interests include crustal evolution through metamorphic transitions, partial melting mechanisms, and the role of thermodynamic models in interpreting rock records. His work spans global regions, including India, Greece, Myanmar, and Antarctica, addressing topics like blueschist metamorphism and granulite-facies migmatites.

Recent publications (2020–2024) highlight studies on Archaean TTG formation, Aegean orogenic collapse, and thermal evolution of metamorphic core complexes. He collaborates internationally, contributing to projects like the Naga ophiolite and Mogok Metamorphic belt studies.

Grants include the NERC-funded LA:TRACE facility. No scientific awards are explicitly listed, but his impactful research positions him as a leader in metamorphic geology.