Eric Horsman - Research

My geoscience research is focused on deformation-related geological processes. PDFs of pertinent papers can be found on my CV. Here are a few specific research interests:

Processes, causes, and implications of heterogeneous deformation. Rocks are mechanically heterogeneous at essentially every scale of observation. I am interested in how each of the various mechanical components in a rock contributes to bulk deformation. I think relationships between deformation processes at different scales are especially interesting.
Quantitative constraints on rheology of naturally deformed rocks. Almost all our knowledge of rock rheology comes from experimental deformation in the laboratory. I am interested in using quantitative observations of naturally deformed rocks to study rheology.
Ascent, emplacement, and assembly of igneous plutons. I am particularly interested in studying how magmatism is (and isn't) related to both local and tectonic deformation.

In addition to my geoscience research, for the past few years I have been actively involved in educational research projects. Much of my work has focused on studying how to improve students' three-dimensional visualization skills with Sarah Titus at Carleton College. More recently, Sarah and I began studying how to design effective field trips with Cathy Manduca, director of the Science Education Resource Center at Carleton College.

Eric Horsman
U.S. Geological Survey
345 Middlefield Rd, MS 973
Menlo Park, CA 94025
650-329-5308
email me

Last modified 2 January 2008