Pressure-Temperature history of Eclogites

Project Title

Pressure-Temperature history of Eclogites: new constraints from new techniques

Faculty Mentor(s)

Project Description

Project Description: 

My current research centers around applying thermobarometric approaches to eclogites; which are unusual metamorphic rocks, typically of basaltic composition; in order to determine the pressure they were under at their time of formation. This information helps us gain valuable insights about the movements of tectonic plates. We use a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) to determine the bulk chemical composition of the rocks so we can extrapolate what minerals make up the rock and use computer modeling systems to  determine the pressure estimates of these rock samples. I’m currently examining samples from two different sites, one from the Appalachian Mountains and another from Santa Catalina island, off the coast of California. With these new techniques, it’s possible to confirm past results, as well as construct a richer and more nuanced understanding of these eclogites, leading to a more comprehensive understanding of continental collisions, subduction zones, and the formation of mountain ranges.

Why is your research important?

The value of this research is two fold. First, we are testing and validating the effectiveness of new techniques for obtaining this kind of data, which provides value to everyone in the field of metamorphic petrology as well as fields adjacent to it. Secondly, the knowledge gained about the movement of tectonic plates will be valuable to anyone who lives on a tectonic plate, which is all people, as having a better understanding of these tectonic movements would allow us to better prepare our societies for their movements in the future.

What does the process of doing your research look like?

Some days are fun SEM days; the days I get to put samples into the SEM in order to extract data; and other days are computer modeling days where I spend hours plugging said data into different modeling software. That said, some of the most fun days are data interpretation days where I get to draw conclusions from the data after bombarding Prof. Zeb Page with at least 87 questions.

What knowledge has your research contributed to your field?

The most direct contribution to my field from this research has been the testing and, at times, validation of these new methods and techniques. A more indirect contribution are the new insights we have gleaned into the creation of mountain ranges in different parts of the United States, such as the Appalachian Mountains and the Franciscan Complex.

In what ways have you showcased your research thus far?

In Spring 2024, I traveled to Asheville, North Carolina and presented my research in the form of a poster at the SouthEast Geologic Society of America annual conference. I also presented my research in the same form at the Oberlin Undergraduate Research Symposium.

How did you get involved in research? What drove you to seek out research experiences in college?

I did the scariest thing you can do: I asked my advisor, Prof. Amanda Schmidt, about research opportunities within our department. She recommended that I reach out to to Prof. Zeb Page, since she believed we had overlapping interests in chemistry and rocks. I wanted to seek out research experiences because lab work seemed fun and I had an inkling that I wanted to be a professional researcher after college and it seemed like a sane idea to try it before fully committing to graduate school.

What is your favorite aspect of the research process?

Although I absolutely love the actual experimentation phase, as well as the computer modeling, I have to admit that the absolute best part of research is the data interpretation. Looking at the results and trying to figure out what exactly they mean is a fun intellectual exercise that I love to do.

How has working with your mentor impacted the development of your research project? How has it impacted you as a researcher?

Prof. Zeb Page is very interesting. He is arguably one of the smartest people I’ve ever met, but he’s also characterized for thinking way outside the box. The trust and independence he gives me is empowering, yet he is always a message away if you want to talk through the project. He’s helped me become more independent and confident in my base of knowledge, but has also helped me realize it's ok, and even encouraged, to ask for help when I have questions.

How has the research you’ve conducted contributed to your professional or academic development?  

On the more practical side, I’ve learned to use techniques and softwares that are an integral part of my field. Beyond that, doing this research has removed the rose-colored glasses I had regarding what my future as a researcher might look like. Knowing how hard it can be and still being in love with my discipline gives me confidence in continuing my research journey into the future.

What advice would you give to a younger student wanting to get involved in research in your field?

It’s not nearly as scary or daunting as it seems on the outside. The point of undergraduate research is to learn, so it’s normal and even expected for you to not know what you’re doing until you do it. I didn’t have a single clue about computer modeling prior to taking on this research and I ended up loving it so much that I added a computer science course into my class schedule.