Prof David Wallis
- University Associate Professor
- UKRI Future Leaders Fellow
Contact
Connect
About
2020–present: Associate Professor and UKRI Future Leaders Fellow, Department of Earth Sciences, University of Cambridge
2017–2020: Assistant Professor, Department of Earth Sciences, Utrecht University
2016–2017: Research Associate, University College, University of Oxford
2015–2017: Postdoctoral Research Assistant, Department of Earth Sciences, University of Oxford
Advisors: Dr. Lars Hansen and Prof. Angus Wilkinson
Project: A new method for mapping stresses in mantle rocks: Dislocation density from electron backscatter diffraction
2010–2014: Ph.D. (Geology), School of Earth and Environment, University of Leeds
Supervisors: Dr. Richard Phillips and Dr. Geoff Lloyd
Thesis: Micro-geodynamics of the Karakoram Fault Zone, Ladakh, NW Himalaya
2006–2010: MSci. Honours Degree in Geoscience (Geology), Department of Earth Sciences, University of Durham
Supervisors: Dr. Mark Allen and Dr. Jonathan Imber
Thesis: Deformation within the basal units of the Lizard ophiolite, SW Cornwall: A combined field and microstructural study
Research
The Microgeodynamics Group in the Department of Earth Sciences, University of Cambridge, tackles problems in rock deformation from the crystal-lattice to lithospheric-plate scales. We develop and employ advanced microanalytical techniques to decipher the processes of rock deformation. High-angular resolution electron backscatter diffraction (HR-EBSD) provides a key tool for quantifying distributions of dislocations and stress heterogeneity within grains. We combine such microstructural analyses with rock deformation experiments to develop a new generation of microphysical models of deformation processes. Analyses of key field sites allow us to up-scale laboratory results to establish the role of microscale processes in macroscopic geodynamics.
PhD applications are typically due in early January for particular funding opportunities (see more details here). Please do get in touch if you are interested in doing a PhD in rock deformation and have relevant experience. If you don’t yet have a Masters degree, consider joining our MASt programme for a year to experience doing research in our group.