Scott Nooner

Scott Nooner is a Professor of Geophysics at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, leading the Crustal Dynamics and Geophysics Laboratory. His research focuses on mid-ocean ridge systems, seafloor geodesy, and crustal deformation processes. He specializes in using geophysical techniques like seafloor gravity, compliance measurements, and pressure gauges to study magma dynamics at Axial Seamount and other volcanic systems.

His work includes studying the interplay between tectonics and hydrothermal systems, monitoring CO₂ sequestration at the Sleipner Project in the North Sea, and analyzing deformation caused by monsoonal flooding in Bangladesh. He teaches courses such as Natural Disasters, Geological Oceanography, and Introduction to Geophysics.

• Key Research Areas: Axial Seamount eruption dynamics, magma chamber compartmentalization, seafloor geodetic monitoring, CO₂ storage, and crustal deformation in subduction zones.
• Notable Projects: Collaborative monitoring of Alaska and Cascadia subduction zones, long-term studies at Axial Seamount, and Bangladesh delta subsidence analysis.

Nooner advises a diverse group of graduate and undergraduate students, including Audra Sawyer, Will Hefner, and Kevin Lally. His lab maintains active partnerships with oceanographic institutions and operates advanced seafloor instrumentation networks.