معرفی
Tom Foster is a Professor in the Department of Earth & Environmental Sciences at the University of Iowa, where he has held academic positions since 19712. His research focuses on metamorphic petrology, high-temperature reaction kinetics, computer modeling of geological processes, and Proterozoic tectonics. He has also contributed to interdisciplinary projects in planetary geology and geoinformatics.
Education:
- Ph.D. and M.A. in Geology, Johns Hopkins University
- B.S. in Geology, University of California, Santa Barbara
His research integrates thermodynamic modeling with field studies to understand metamorphic processes, mineral assemblages, and tectonic evolution. Recent work spans 3D metamorphic textures, contact aureole dynamics, and geochemical databases like NMITA for Neogene marine biota.
Key trends in his 15 most recent publications (2010–1999) include:
- Metamorphic reaction kinetics using computer simulations
- Proterozoic tectonic modeling in Colorado and Greenland
- Fluid infiltration processes in metamorphic rocks
- Planetary geology and Mars mission data analysis
- Geochemical databases for fossil biodiversity
Scientific Awards:
- Fellow, Geological Society of America
- Fellow, Mineralogical Society of America
- GSA Best Poster Award (1997)
Foster has supervised 12 Ph.D. and M.S. students, including Elizabeth Goeke, Claudia Sartini-Rideout, and Alessandro Moretti. He has also advised visiting scholars from institutions in Switzerland, Italy, and Germany. His collaborative work extends to interdisciplinary projects in informatics and planetary exploration.
