Research/professional speciality
My holistic goal is to enhance knowledge and understanding of the nature of Earth resources, energy transitions, and natural hazards.
My specialist field is structural geology and tectonics: My awesome working group at the University of Mainz and I explore the mechanics of fractures, faults and shear zones throughout Earth’s lithosphere. We currently apply this expertise to (i) study of fractured geothermal reservoirs and induced seismicity, (ii) the electrical properties of typical fault and shear zone rocks and fluids, aiming to ensure these properties can be better used for remote geophysical imaging, and (iii) understanding earthquake hazard and promoting societal resilience. I also have experience in paleoseismology and landscape evolution, engineering geology, subduction zone structure, and deformation of ultramafic rocks.
Methods: I am principally a field geologist, but I also undertake microtextural analysis, particularly by electron beam and synchrotron methods, perform deformation experiments, and validate results by simple computational models. I am an active member of the global continental and oceanic scientific drilling consortia, and have interests in scientific data management and science communication/outreach.
Academic qualifications
2008 PhD (Geology), University of Otago
2006 MPhil (Earth Sciences), Australian National University
2001 MSc (Hons, Geology), University of Auckland
1999 BSc (Geology), University of Auckland
Professional positions held
Oct 2019 – present W2 Professorin für Strukturgeologie und Tektonik, Universität Mainz, Germany; Honorary Research Associate Professor, University of Otago, NZ
Dec 2018-Sept 2019 Associate Dean – International, Division of Sciences, University of Otago, NZ.
Feb 2018-Sept 2019 Research Associate Professor, University of Otago, NZ.
Feb 2013-Jan 2018 Senior Lecturer, University of Otago, NZ (‘above the bar’ since February 2017)
June-Sept 2017 Specially Appointed Associate Professor, Graduate School of Sciences, Hokkaido University, Japan
Jan 2009-Jan 2013 Lecturer, University of Otago; confirmed (ie. tenured) Sept 2011.
Aug-Dec 2008 Postdoctoral Researcher, University of Wisconsin-Madison and Texas A&M University, USA.
Jan-July 2008 Lecturer, University of Otago.
2005-2007 Teaching Assistant, University of Otago, NZ.
2003 Teaching Assistant, Monash University, Australia
2001-2002 Engineering Geologist, Fraser Thomas Ltd., Auckland, NZ.
1999-2000 Research Assistant, Engineering Geology Ltd., Auckland, NZ