It is the challenge of solving a complex problem by combining information from different methods: geophysics, geochemistry, seismology, volcanology, geothermal science. It is amazing to collaborate in a multidisciplinary team like this.
Fieldwork is an important part of the job. I have carried out geophysical surveys on land from the Taupo Volcanic Zone to Antarctica, and on several research vessels in the Pacific and Mediterranean. There is a feeling of exploration when we are surveying some areas of the oceans for the first time, considering that no one has investigated that place before.
Early Evolution of a young back-arc basin in the Havre Trough, 2019, Nature Geoscience.
What was the research finding?
We discovered that in the Havre Trough Northeast of New Zealand a rapid surge of seafloor spreading (somewhat similar to what happens at the center of theAtlantic Ocean) occurred between 5.0 and 2.5 million years ago.
Why is it important?
Because the model in the paper can explain global observations of similar episodic and short-lived events of seafloor spreading observed in other areas of the Western Pacific.
Where are you?
Onboard the drilling vessel JOIDES Resolution during IODP Expedition 376
What are you doing?
I am cutting cubes from a core to prepare samples for magnetic analysis.
Read more about Fabio's experience here.