What is tectonics?

The term "tectonics" suggests large scale processes that affect the Earth's crust. But, to get to any interpretation of large-scale process we have to look at the components that get us to our inclusions: the structural framework as the distribution of faults and folds; the crustal architecture; the geodynamics that drive and the plate tectonics that represents the evolution of the Earth's surface.

What are my research interests?

My research interests in this area focus on understanding how structure and tectonics influence landscape dynamics and evolution and how this can be represented on a palaeogeographic map to be used as a boundary condition for modelling or as the basis for exploration.

Tectonics, by definition, also affects the distribution of landscape through plate tectonics and so an important part of my research has been plate modelling.

LEFT: Uplift has a major influence on landscape and then in turn climate, weathering and erosion. In this figure some of the key effects of mountains are shown. Modelling has indicated that the location and orientation of mountains can have regional and even global effects.

I currently teach on the University of Leeds Structural Geology with Geophysics MSc field course to the Pyrenees.