Philip Skemer Research Group

The group performs rock deformation experiments that test sensitivity to temperature, pressure, grain size, composition, and strain to isolate deformation mechanisms. Researchers analyze micro- to meso-scale structures in naturally deformed rocks to assess deformation process importance and link experimental results to models. The group uses experimental data to parameterize and test rheological models of mantle and crustal materials for geodynamic modeling. Researchers combine experimental deformation, microstructural observations, and modeling to connect laboratory results to seismological and geologic observations.