My research investigates volcanic lithics ejected during previous explosive eruptions of Mt. Taranaki. Lithics are non-juvenile pyroclasts eroded from the conduit walls during an eruption. Their composition and textures can provide important information on eruption dynamics within the conduit. Volcanic lithics dominate Mt. Taranaki deposits, so my work aims to distinguish juvenile from lithic material and identify the lithic source eruption. Focussing on the initial phases of vent opening and conduit establishment will provide insight into early conduit development and its impact on eruption progression, with implications for hazard mitigation.
I’m also interested in ash aggregation, in particular the formation of multi-layered accretionary lapilli, and spent the last couple of years working as a Catastrophe Risk Analyst in the Insurance sector.
Research Interests
Physical volcanology, hazard mitigation, ash aggregation
Working thesis title
Conduit establishment and evolution during explosive eruptions of Mt Taranaki inferred from volcanic lithics
Academic History
BSc Geology, University of Durham, 2017
MRes Volcanology, University of Durham, 2019
