About Andrew
2024-2025 PHD PROJECT - APPLY NOW!: From the mantle to the seafloor: How do oceanic core complexes form at mid-ocean ridges?
My research uses multi-disciplinary analyses of the geological record to understand the tectonic evolution of Earth. In particular, I am interested in the deformation processes that control and facilitate plate tectonics from subgrain-scale to plate-scale in both marine and terrestrial settings.
Currently, my research focuses on the deformation and magmatic processes that control oceanic crust formation at mid-ocean ridges. This includes field-based and paleomagnetic analyses of the Oman ophiolite, and microstructural analyses of rock core drilled from the Mid-Atlantic Ridge (Atlantis Massif). I have expertise in fieldwork, petrography, and structural geology, including electron microscopy, EBSD, and paleomagnetic analyses, which I combine and integrate to understand deformation processes and plate tectonics across scales.
Previously, my research has focused on deformation processes and tectonics in continental settings, including continental collision belts (Himalaya; Norway), accretionary margins an subduction zones (Himalaya; NW Canada; SE Asia), and passive margins (East Greenland); some of these projects are still active. Additionally, I am involved in a number of collaborative projects investigating grain-scale deformation processes through experimental approaches.
At Plymouth, I have access to cutting edge research facilities at the Plymouth Electron Microscopy Centre and the Paleomagnetism Laboratory. I am also involved in on-going marine scientific drilling research, through the International Ocean Drilling Programme (IODP), including members of the IODP Science Office located here at SoGEES.
PROSPECTIVE RESEARCH STUDENTS
2024-2025 PHD PROJECT - APPLY NOW!: From the mantle to the seafloor: How do oceanic core complexes form at mid-ocean ridges?
I have a range of exciting research projects suitable for prospective PhD, ResM and MSc students, which include opportunities for fieldwork and laboratory analyses. These can be tailored to suit individual needs and interests. Interested candidates should contact me by email to discuss these opportunities further.
IN THE NEWS: Rocks that originated in Earth’s mantle could reveal secrets of planet’s history
OMAN3D PROJECT: The 3D anatomy of magma transport at fast-spreading ocean ridges
NEW PAPERS:
A long section of serpentinized depleted mantle peridotite (Science)
Experimental Observation of a New Attenuation Mechanism in hcp Metals That May Operate in the Earth's Inner Core (GGG)
External Websites:
ResearchGate
Google Scholar
Supervised Research Degrees
PROSPECTIVE RESEARCH STUDENTS:
I have a range of exciting research projects suitable for prospective PhD, ResM and MSc students, which include opportunities for fieldwork and laboratory analyses. These can be tailored to suit individual needs and interests. Interested candidates should contact me by email to discuss these opportunities further.
Teaching
- Structural Geology
- Geophysics
- Field geology & mapping
Contact Andrew
A523 Portland Square, Drake Circus , Plymouth, PL4 8AA
+44 1752 584476
andy.parsons@plymouth.ac.uk
