Researcher Summary
I am the 100 level coordinator for Geological Sciences and currently run and design the labs and fieldtrips for first year (and some second year) geology courses at the University of Canterbury.
My PhD research ending in 2010 was focused on investigating active tectonics, geomorphology, fault mapping and sequence stratigraphy by seismic and DEM interpretation, and the evolution of a section of the active Hikurangi subduction zone plate margin off-shore the Poverty Bay region in the North Island, New Zealand. Publications in progress relating to this field include work on the off-shore Hokitika Canyons.
I was part of the teams mapping the Greendale Fault rupture from the 2010 Christchurch Earthquake and am a member of the University of Canterbury fault rupture team investigating the landscape effects of the 14 Nov 2016 Kaikoura Earthquake based in the Waiau region around the epicentre. Research is ongoing.
I also have a background in physical volcanology with a particular interest in highly-welded small scale ignimbrites and am currently writing a publication on my B.Sc. Honours thesis work in this area.
I maintain active involvement with Geoscience Education research as part of my full-time teaching role. This includes the use of electronic learning media, learning analytics and curriculum innovations, particularly in response to a disaster scenario, but with wider applications. I'm also focused on research into best-practice teacher training and review processes. Current research topics also include the outputs and lessons from designing virtual fieldtrips at tertiary level, and designing an Earth Science garden at UC for outreach and teaching purposes.
I am also an avid photographer and passionate about inspiring people into geology through my photographs.
