Introduction to Geophysics at Missouri S&T

The Earth has a radius of 6,371 kilometers. Numerous studies have proven
that processes in the Earth's deep interior control the formation and
evolution of most of the large-scale features (e.g., mountain belts, faults,
volcanoes etc.). A large portion of our knowledge about Earth's interior
comes from geophysical measurements made within the top few kilometers
of the planet's surface.

The Missouri S&T Geophysics group emphasizes the combination of geology, physics,
mathematics, and computer science to explore the Earth. We study the deformation
of the earth's crust using airborne remote-sensing and GPS data, image the
structure of the Earth's deep interior using elastic waves produced by earthquakes,
and study the distribution of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions in space and time.

On the practical side, we conduct research and offer courses in the area of
exploration geophysics. Applications of geophysical techniques include locating
oil, gas, and minerals, as well as objects or substances related to the study
and protection of the environment.

The excellent job market ---
"People working in any of the following oil exploration job
titles can expect to earn over $100,000 within a few years
of starting out:
Geophysicist jobs -- Geophysicists, study the Earth's internal
and external composition."

Selected Solid-earth Geophysics Projects Conducted by Members of the Missouri S&T Geophysics Group

1. Deformation and structure of the oldest continent on Earth
2. Structure and dynamics of continental rifts
3. Subduction zone earthquakes
4. Temporal variation of fault slip-rate
5. Earthquake damage pattern analysis
6. Mantle deformation and structure beneath California
7. Western US earthquake distribution
8. Transition from the Rocky Mountains to the Great Plains
9. Seismic Hazard in NE Kansas
10. Mantle stratification across South America

*** People and Infrastructure:

Current and recent members of the Geophysics Group
Geophysicists in other S&T academic units
Geophysical facilities and products at Missouri S&T
Representative publications

*** Courses:

Required Courses for Undergraduate Students in Geophysics
Recommended Graduate Courses in Geophysics

*** Apply for Graduate Admission:

Apply for Graduate Admission

*** Misc. Links:

Information About Rolla and Adjacent Areas
Job opportunities


For more information about Geophysics at Missouri S&T, please contact Dr. Steve Gao (sgao@mst.edu) or Dr. Kelly Liu (liukh@mst.edu)