Frank Corsetti is a Professor of Earth Sciences at the University of Southern California (USC), leading the Corsetti Lab. His research focuses on the co-evolution of Earth and its biosphere, particularly during extreme events like the 'Snowball Earth' glaciation and mass extinctions. He holds a Ph.D. in Geological Sciences from UC Santa Barbara (1998) and a B.S. in Geology from UC Davis (1989). Research Interests: Corsetti studies geobiological processes such as stromatolite formation, microbial carbonate systems, and the environmental impacts of mass extinctions. His lab investigates biosignatures, diagenetic processes, and astrobiological applications. Current projects include the end-Triassic mass extinction and microbial interactions in extreme environments. Advising & Grants: He mentors a team of PhD students (including Reena Joubert, Alison Cribb, and others) and has secured funding from NASA for projects like stromatolite carbonate formation studies. His work bridges paleontology, geochemistry, and microbiology, contributing to understanding Earth’s long-term climate and life history. Labs/Teams: The Corsetti Lab at USC explores stromatolites, microbial mats, and ancient Earth systems. Collaborations involve institutions like JPL and international universities.
James K. Russell is a Full Professor in Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences at The University of British Columbia, where he has been faculty since 1999. He directs the Volcanology and Petrology Laboratory and maintains an active research program in volcanology and petrology with significant international collaborations including appointments at LMU Munich, University of Torino, and Monash University. His educational background includes a Ph.D. (1984) and M.Sc. (1980) from the University of Calgary, and a B.Sc.(H) (1976) from the University of Manitoba. He previously worked at Cominco Exploration Ltd in Vernon, British Columbia before joining UBC. Russell's research focuses on understanding magmatic processes through multiple approaches. His primary interests include glaciovolcanism as a tool for paleoclimate reconstruction, predictive modeling of magma transport properties, and high-temperature rock mechanics experiments. His work bridges theoretical modeling with field observations, particularly in the Canadian Cordillera. He has developed influential models for magma viscosity that are widely cited in the volcanology community. His publication record shows consistent high-impact research over several decades, with recent work focusing on ultramafic melt viscosity, kimberlite transport mechanisms, and glaciovolcanic interactions. The research demonstrates a strong emphasis on quantitative approaches combining thermodynamics, rheology, and field-based observations to solve fundamental problems in volcanology. Scientific Awards: 2024 Research Award of the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, LMU, Munich, Germany 2022 DAAD Research Stay for Visiting Academics Scholarship (3 months) 2019 Visiting Professorship, University Roma Tre 2019 Visiting Fellow at Centre for Advanced Studies, University of Munich 2016 Fellow of Mineralogical Society of America 2013 NSERC Discovery Accelerator Supplement Award 2010 Career Achievement Medal, Volcanology Division, Geological Association of Canada 2008 Peacock Medal, Mineralogical Association of Canada Russell has served in numerous editorial and professional capacities, including as Co-Editor-in-Chief for Journal of Volcanology & Geothermal Research (2016-2022), Associate Editor for multiple prominent journals, and as evaluator for research grants including ERC Consolidator grants and NSERC competitions. He has provided media consultation for National Geographic and Nova/Pioneer Productions. He maintains active laboratory facilities for volcanology and petrology research at UBC, with equipment for high-temperature experiments and magma rheology studies. His research group collaborates internationally with institutions in Germany, Italy, and Australia, reflecting his extensive network built through sabbatical visits and visiting professorships.
Paul D. Asimow is the Eleanor and John R. McMillan Professor of Geology and Geochemistry at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), part of the Division of Geological and Planetary Sciences. He holds a B.A. from Harvard University (1991), an M.S. (1993), and a Ph.D. (1997) from Caltech. His career progression includes roles as Assistant Professor (1999–2005), Associate Professor (2005–2010), and Professor (2010–present), with the McMillan Professorship since 2016. Education: A.B. in Geology, Harvard University, 1991 M.S. in Geology, Caltech, 1993 Ph.D. in Geology, Caltech, 1997 Research Interests: Focuses on computational, experimental, and observational approaches to igneous petrology and mineral physics. Key areas include adiabatic mantle melting, water's role in mantle dynamics, high-pressure mineral physics, and processes at mid-ocean ridges. His research utilizes advanced facilities like the Lindhurst Laboratory of Experimental Geophysics and the alphaMELTS software package for thermodynamic modeling. Articles Overview: Recent work spans planetary crust formation, Martian petrogenesis, and high-pressure mineral behavior. Themes include experimental techniques, computational modeling, and cosmochemical studies of meteorites. Awards and Honors: James B. Macelwane Medal (AGU) Frank Wigglesworth Clarke Medal (Geochemical Society) Richard P. Feynman Prize for Teaching Excellence (Caltech) Fellow of the American Geophysical Union Fellow of the Mineralogical Society of America Grants and Labs: Received NSF funding for developing an interactive phase equilibria curriculum. Leads the Lindhurst Laboratory, focusing on shock-wave experiments and high-pressure mineral physics. Collaborates on software tools like alphaMELTS and MAGMASOURCE. Labs and Teams: Active in the Caltech Shock Wave Laboratory, advancing experimental methods for planetary material studies. Engages in interdisciplinary projects on Mars geology and terrestrial planet formation.
Angelo Peccerillo is a distinguished Full Professor of Petrology at the University of Perugia, Italy, with an extensive academic career spanning multiple Italian universities. He previously served as Full Professor of Petrology at the Universities of Calabria (1993-1997) and Messina (1985-1993), and as Associate Professor of Volcanology (1982-1985) and Assistant Professor (1971-1982) at the University of Florence. He earned his Laurea Degree in Geology from the University of Florence in 1970 and has been a member of Academia Europaea since his election. Peccerillo's research focuses on the petrology and geochemistry of magmatic processes, with particular expertise in igneous petrology, geochemistry, volcanology, orogenic volcanism, and continental rift magmatism. His scholarly work has established him as a leading expert in understanding the complex relationships between mantle processes, crustal interactions, and volcanic activity in the Mediterranean region and beyond. His research methodology integrates petrological, geochemical, and geophysical approaches to develop comprehensive models of magmatic systems. Analysis of Peccerillo's recent publications reveals a consistent focus on magmatic processes across diverse geological settings. His work spans from detailed studies of specific volcanic systems like the Aeolian Islands and Ethiopian Rift to broader investigations of mantle structure and geodynamic processes in the Mediterranean region. A recurring theme is the integration of multiple analytical approaches to model magma plumbing systems, understand mantle composition, and elucidate the geodynamic evolution of volcanic regions, particularly examining the relationships between deep and shallow mantle processes. Antonio Feltrinelli Price 2006 for Earth Sciences, awarded by the National Academy of Lincei, Italy Professor Peccerillo has supervised numerous MSc and PhD students both at his home institution and abroad. His editorial leadership includes serving as Chief Editor of the "European Journal of Mineralogy" from 2006 to 2008 and membership on the editorial boards of several prestigious journals including "Lithos," "Journal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research," "Geological Society of Italy Bulletin," and "Open Mineralogy Journal." He has been actively involved in research evaluation, serving on national and international panels for organizations such as NSF, ESF, CNR, MIUR, and NATO. Peccerillo maintains strong international scientific connections through visiting positions at institutions like the Australian National University, University of Gottingen, and University of Paris XI at Orsay. His leadership extends to professional organizations, having served as President of the Italian Petrology Group and currently as a Member of Academia Europaea. His administrative experience includes serving as Department Head and Coordinator of PhD programs at the Universities of Messina, Cosenza, and Perugia.
Sally Gibson is a researcher at the Department of Earth Sciences, University of Cambridge, specializing in mantle geodynamics and volatile cycling processes. Her work integrates field observations, geochemical analysis, and numerical modeling to investigate how deep Earth processes influence surface environments over 3.5 billion years of planetary evolution. Research focuses on volatile cycling (CO₂, H₂O, F, Cl, S) in mantle systems Key projects include mantle plume-ridge interactions with collaborators in the US and Ecuador Operates a LA-ICP-MS laboratory for high-resolution geochemical analyses Supervises PhD students in petrology, geochemistry, and numerical modeling Her research addresses fundamental questions about Earth's habitability through studies of mantle-derived volatiles critical for climate regulation and energy transition metal deposits. Fieldwork in remote regions like Antarctica, Lesotho, and the Galápagos Islands provides empirical data for her interdisciplinary approach. Recent publications highlight her expertise in mantle xenolith analysis, plume dynamics, and volatile quantification in large igneous provinces. Her group's work combines 3He/4He isotopic analysis with seismic tomography to constrain lithospheric evolution and mineral deposit formation. Students under her supervision develop expertise in petrology and geochemical modeling while engaging with environmental and societal impacts of geological research. She actively promotes scientific outreach and community engagement, fostering connections between academia and broader society.
James Scoates is a Professor in the Department of Earth, Ocean & Atmospheric Sciences at the University of British Columbia (UBC), affiliated with the Faculty of Science. His research focuses on magmatic processes, including the origin and evolution of silicate magmas, geochemical and isotopic studies of layered intrusions and anorthosite suites, and the formation of magmatic ore deposits. He has held positions at UBC since 2002, following roles at Université Libre de Bruxelles (1995-2001). Education: B.Sc. (Honours), 1987, Queen's University at Kingston, Canada Ph.D., 1994, University of Wyoming, USA Research Interests: His work spans igneous petrology, geochronology, and mineral deposit geology. Key areas include physical volcanology of Large Igneous Provinces (LIPs), the geochemical evolution of magma plumbing systems in layered intrusions like the Skaergaard and Bushveld Complexes, and the application of isotopic techniques to trace mantle sources. He also investigates convergent margin Ni-Cu-PGE deposits and their tectonic contexts. Awards: Faculty Teaching Award, 2021 (EOAS-UBC) Killam Teaching Award, 2018 (UBC) Young Scientist Award, 2001 (Mineralogical Association of Canada) Teaching & Leadership: Dr. Scoates teaches courses in mineralogy, geochemistry, mineral deposits, and field geology. He has led initiatives to innovate geoscience education through virtual field experiences and peer-learning strategies. He chairs the MAGNET NSERC CREATE program and serves on the Pacific Centre for Isotopic and Geochemical Research (PCIGR) steering committee. Key Projects: Investigating the geochemical evolution of Hawaiian plumes and mantle heterogeneity. Studying magma storage and differentiation in the Muskox intrusion (Mackenzie LIP). Developing geochronological frameworks for layered intrusions like the Stillwater Complex.
Professor John Parnell is the Chair in Geology & Petroleum Geology at the University of Aberdeen , affiliated with the School of Geosciences and Department of Geology and Petroleum Geology . His research focuses on geochemistry, paleoenvironmental reconstruction, trace element cycling, and sedimentary systems , with significant contributions to studies of the Rhynie Chert, Bowland Shale, and Lewisian Complex. Research Interests Professor Parnell's work spans: Geochemical analysis of Paleoproterozoic and Neoproterozoic systems Trace metal mobility in sedimentary and metamorphic environments Organic carbon burial and its tectonic implications Planetary analog studies for Mars exploration Shale resource characterization and environmental impact assessment Recent Publications His recent articles highlight investigations into: Graphitization processes in Scottish Highlands marbles Sulphur isotope records in Precambrian successions Trace element dynamics in the Bowland Shale Biogeochemical cycling at the Precambrian-Cambrian boundary Labs & Collaborations He leads research in the Geofluids Group and collaborates with the Planetary Sciences Department on Mars analog studies.
apl. Prof. Dr. habil. Thomas Seifert is an extraordinary professor in the Professorship for Mineral Deposits and Petrology at the Faculty of Geosciences, Geotechnics and Mining of Technische Universität Bergakademie Freiberg. His academic career spans over three decades with significant contributions to economic geology and mineral deposit research. Since 2011, he has served as an apl. Professor for Geology and Metallogeny of mineral resource deposits, and since 2012 has been in charge of the Professorship for Lagerstättenlehre (mineral deposit science) and Petrology at TUBAF. Seifert's research focuses on metallogeny of Sn-W-Mo-Li-In polymetallic deposits, hydrothermal Au and Ag polymetallic mineralization, Archaean Lithium-Cesium-Tantalum pegmatites, petrology of lamprophyres and related rocks, and Large Igneous Provinces. His work bridges theoretical understanding with practical mineral exploration, particularly for critical raw materials essential for modern technology. His extensive field experience includes research in Germany, Australia, Zimbabwe, Russia, China, Canada, and the United States. His recent publications demonstrate a strong emphasis on critical metal exploration, particularly tin, lithium, indium, and other strategic elements. His research combines detailed mineralogical, geochemical, and geochronological studies to understand the formation processes of economically important deposits. The articles reveal his expertise in both European Variscan deposits and Archaean cratonic settings, with particular attention to the Erzgebirge region of Germany and comparable deposits worldwide. Seifert has received the Julius-Weisbach-Preis in 2009, recognizing his contributions to geoscience. He maintains active memberships in key professional societies including the Society of Economic Geologists (since 1996), International Association for the Genesis of Ore Deposits (since 1993), and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Geowissenschaften (since 2002). His collaborative research extends across international boundaries, working with institutions in Australia, Zimbabwe, Czech Republic, Sweden, and other countries. His work on iron oxide-apatite deposits, critical metal enrichment in skarn systems, and Ni-Cu-PGE sulfide mineralization demonstrates the breadth of his research interests and their relevance to modern mineral exploration challenges.
Professor Alex Copley holds the position of Professor of Tectonics at the Department of Earth Sciences, University of Cambridge. His research focuses on understanding Earth's crustal deformation, tectonic forces, and earthquake dynamics across scales from microcrystalline to continental. He employs integrated approaches combining field geology, geophysical data, numerical modeling, and petrological analysis. His work addresses key questions on earthquake controls, tectonic force origins, and crustal material properties, with global field projects spanning Asia, the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and South America. Research interests include: Earthquake mechanics and seismic hazard mitigation Continental tectonics and mountain belt evolution Crustal rheology and lithospheric dynamics Metamorphic petrology and continental collision processes Large-scale controls on critical mineral distributions Recent publications highlight studies on fault mechanics in Iran, Himalayan shortening, and the thermal evolution of mountain ranges. His work bridges fundamental geoscience with societal applications, including earthquake resilience and tectonic influences on resource formation. Affiliations include Bullard Laboratories and collaborations with global institutions. No formal awards are listed in the provided text, though his research has been published in high-impact journals like Nature and Geophysical Research Letters .
David Zakharov is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences at Western Michigan University (WMU), specializing in petrology, stable isotope geochemistry, and water-rock interaction. His research focuses on the geochemical co-evolution of Earth’s crust and hydrosphere, particularly through igneous and metamorphic processes, with projects targeting Archean subaerial magmatism, Precambrian chert geochemistry, and fluid circulation in oceanic crust. At WMU, Zakharov established a stable isotope lab in January 2023, equipped with advanced instrumentation including a Thermo EA Isolink, Renishaw Raman microscope, and CO2 laser. His lab conducts high-precision triple O-isotope (δ¹⁸O, δD, Δ¹⁷O) analyses, geochronology, and SIMS measurements, collaborating on studies such as the 2025 Chemical Geology paper on exceptionally low δ¹⁸O zircon values and the 2024 Chemical Geology paper on experimental olivine-water reactions. He has presented at major conferences like Goldschmidt 2024 and AGU Fall Meeting 2022. Zakharov’s research integrates fieldwork, laboratory experiments, and analytical techniques to reconstruct ancient environmental conditions, such as seawater chemistry and hydrological cycles. His lab has hosted distinguished lecturers and workshops, including a 2024 SIMS Workshop at UCLA. Current projects involve PhD students Israr Hussain, Afrid Abdaly Sheik, and Zack Stevens, with recent publications highlighting reactive fluid dynamics, silicification processes, and isotopic constraints on early Earth environments.
Professor Balz Kamber is a renowned academic in the Faculty of Science at Queensland University of Technology (QUT), leading research in elemental and isotopic geochemistry paired with petrology. He holds the position of Professor in Petrology within the School of Earth & Atmospheric Sciences . His work focuses on Earth's differentiation into chemical spheres, with applications in climate science, planetary evolution, and resource exploration. Kamber has held prestigious roles, including Chair in Geology and Mineralogy at Trinity College Dublin and a Tier 1 Canada Research Chair at Laurentian University. Education: PhD (University of Bern, Switzerland), MSc (University of Bern) Professional Memberships: Royal Irish Academy (since 2018), European Association of Geochemistry Research interests include thermodynamic modeling of igneous processes, automated mineralogy, and the interplay between climate and geological history. His current projects address mantle dynamics, crustal evolution, and planetary weathering. Teaching focuses on Earth Materials, Petrology, and Climate Science at QUT. Notable achievements include editorship of Chemical Geology (since 2018) and contributions to understanding the Great Oxidation Event and Deccan Traps volcanism. His work bridges fundamental geochemistry with real-world challenges, such as climate change mitigation through enhanced rock weathering. Grants/Funding: Led the 23M Euro Irish Centre for Research in Applied Geosciences (2011–2018) Labs/Teams: Heads a dynamic research group advancing LA-ICP-MS methodologies and geochemical imaging
David A. Foster is a Professor in the Department of Geological Sciences at the University of Florida, affiliated with the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. His research integrates thermochronology, structural geology, and petrology to investigate tectonic and magmatic processes, with a recent focus on enhanced weathering of basaltic rocks for carbon sequestration. He leads the Thermochronology Lab, providing analytical services for mineral separation, Ar/Ar dating, and thermal modeling. Research interests span: Tectonics & Geodynamics : Orogenic collapse, terrane accretion, and supercontinent cycles. Thermochronology : Application of temperature-sensitive isotopic systems to crustal evolution. Surface Processes : Links between tectonic uplift, erosion, and carbon capture via rock weathering. His publications emphasize regional tectonics (e.g., Andes, Appalachians, Cordillera), utilizing geochronology, isotope geochemistry, and structural analysis. Recent work explores collisional orogens, basin provenance, and magmatic arcs, with recurring themes of extensional collapse and paleogeographic reconstructions. Educational contributions include co-authoring the comprehensive textbook Geology of National Parks , now in its 8th edition, which synthesizes geological features of U.S. national parks in the context of plate tectonics and landscape formation.
Professor Andrew Berry is an Associate Professor and Head of the Geochemistry Research Area at the Research School of Earth Sciences, Australian National University (ANU). He holds a D.Phil. from the University of Oxford and a B.Sc. (Hons) from the University of Sydney. His research focuses on experimental petrology, geochemical processes in high-temperature environments, and the use of synchrotron-based techniques like X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) to study element speciation in melts and minerals. Key areas include mantle metasomatism, oxidation state analysis of metals (Fe, Ti, Cr), and the geochemistry of carbonatites and rare earth elements. Education: D.Phil. (University of Oxford, 1997), B.Sc. (University of Sydney, 1991). Employment: Senior Fellow/Associate Professor at ANU (2012–present), Senior Lecturer at Imperial College London (2005–2011), and Research Fellow/Postdoctoral roles at ANU (2000–2005). Research Interests: Experimental studies of melt connectivity, oxidation state controls on element partitioning, and applications of synchrotron techniques. Current projects include investigating Fe³+/Fe²+ ratios in MORB, Ti oxidation states in hibonite, and REE behavior in carbonatites. Scientific Awards: Humboldt Research Fellowship (Universität Frankfurt, 2005). Advising & Grants: Supervised numerous PhD projects on topics like mantle metasomatism and zircon oxy-barometry. Active in collaborative projects on critical metals and carbonate melt geochemistry. Labs/Teams: Leader of the Experimental Petrology group at ANU, contributing to facilities like the Australian Synchrotron.
Steven Constable is a Professor of Geophysics at the Institute of Geophysics and Planetary Physics (IGPP) within the Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego. He specializes in electrical conductivity studies of Earth’s crust and mantle, seafloor instrumentation development, and geophysical data analysis. His research focuses on understanding tectonic processes, subduction zone dynamics, and marine geohazards through electromagnetic methods. Education: B.S., University of Western Australia Ph.D., Australian National University Research Interests: Electrical conductivity of crust and mantle Seafloor instrumentation development Magnetotelluric and controlled-source electromagnetic (CSEM) methods Subduction zone fluid dynamics CO 2 sequestration monitoring Mid-ocean ridge magmatism Grants & Collaborations: NSF-NERC Collaborative Research: Magnetotelluric imaging of plume-ridge interactions (Galapagos) Magnetotelluric Investigation of the Salton Trough (MIST) Experiment PI-LAB Experiment at the Equatorial Mid-Atlantic Ridge Labs & Teams: He leads the Marine Electromagnetics Lab , developing cutting-edge instrumentation for marine geophysical surveys. His team collaborates globally on projects ranging from Arctic permafrost assessment to subduction zone imaging.
Pierre Bouilhol is a Senior Lecturer (Maître de conférences) at Université de Lorraine, Nancy, France, affiliated with the CRPG-CNRS research unit. His expertise spans petrology, geochemistry, and tectonic processes, with a focus on subduction zones, magmatic systems, and isotope geochemistry. He holds a Doctorat en Sciences (PhD) from ETH Zurich (2005-2008) and a Master in Earth Sciences from Montpellier (2002-2004). His research investigates subduction dynamics, including volatile cycling, serpentinite evolution, and magmatism linked to continental collisions. Notable contributions include studies on Archaean subduction-like magmatism and redox heterogeneities in subducting slabs. Teaching includes courses on petrology, field geology, and magmatic systems at undergraduate and graduate levels. He has held prior positions at MIT (2009-2011), Durham University (2012-2016), and the LMV in Clermont-Ferrand (2016-2017). Recent publications (2021–2025) address topics such as early Earth magmatism, slab devolatilization, and carbonate transfer mechanisms in subduction zones. Collaborations span institutions globally, focusing on fieldwork and experimental petrology. His lab work at CRPG involves advanced geochemical and isotopic analyses, contributing to understanding continental crust formation and mantle processes.
