WELCOME TO BAYLOR'S
Volcanoes + Gems + Petrology
ACTIVE RESEARCH
Our group is fascinated by the conditions of magmas that trigger eruptions, as well as the volcanic processes of eruptive ascent and emplacement. We also study crystals — igneous, metamorphic, and gemstones. We use information preserved within crystals to understand petrologic and tectonic processes.
Magmatic ascent rates
We are using synchrotron FTIR and high temperature experiments to determine the volatile contents in melt embayments (CO2 map here). Embayments record the decompression histories of rhyolitic melt ascending volcanic conduits.
Drones for volcanoes
Drone platforms allow rapid, nimble assessment of volcanic processes. We've developed a thermal infrared system that can be mounted under a hobby-level drone.
See a video of our trip to Iceland.
Stress in crystals
We are using synchrotron X-ray microdiffraction (μXRD) to analyze crystal lattice deformation in crystals ejected in volcanic eruptions. We want to learn what geologic processes strain crystals.
See a Baylor promo video.
OUR LAB
Our lab contains a high temperature experimental petrology system. The lab is also home to FTIR and Raman spectrometers, petrographic tools, and high powered computing.
PUBLICATIONS
Roy Bassoo publishes the first assessment of Guyana's alluvial diamonds. We document the diamonds' surface textures, internal structures, compositions, and inclusion character. We suggest Guyana's diamonds are sourced from the Paleoproterozoic.
Anna Ruefer demonstrates that quartz-hosted embayments from 10 caldera-forming eruptions have diverse bubble textures. Embayments shapes also take many forms, ranging from straight and simple to highly irregular.
James Thompson shows that thermal infrared spectroscopic from a geostationary satellite is an effective tool for volcano monitoring, and can be used to evaluate the eruption processes of La Soufriere Volcano at St. Vincent.
MEET THE TEAM
Emanuel Giovanini
PhD student
Dr. James Thompson
Post doc
CV and Google Scholar page
Dr. Chelsea Allison
Post doc
Google Scholar page
