James Gilgannon
Geologist
I am interested in the behaviour of deforming rocks and the fundamental tension between how the details and messiness of a rock compete with the bulk properties to give rise to dominant behaviours at different temporal and spatial scales.
About me
Knowledge
- Python
- Quantitative image analysis
- 4D μCT experimentation
- Generalised thermodynamics
Skills
- Innovative
- Resourceful
- Collaborative
Qualifications
- PhD (insigni cum laude) – University of Bern 2020
- MEarthSci with honours in Geology (1st class) – University of Edinburgh 2016
some
Projects
4D insights into deformation and reaction
Elastic stresses can form metamorphic fabrics
In a nutshell…
We elastically deformed gypsum and allowed it to react at 125˚C. The product phase, bassanite, developed orientations perpendicular to the largest principle stress.
Synkinematic porosity
Shear zones generate periodic porous sheets
In a nutshell…
By revisiting classical experiments that document the formation of a shear zone with novel analysis we show that porous domains emerge that could focus fluid flow or lead to rock failure.
