Research

I am currently conducting investigations into the following research topics:

The enigmatic incompatible element-rich lunar component “KREEP” (potassium-rare earth elements-phosphorous) is hypothesized to have a primordial origin from the extreme differentiation of a magma ocean, and is thought to be responsible for the Th anomaly in the Procellarum KREEP Terrane. Thus, investigating the non-traditional stable Ca and B isotope signatures of KREEP and what might these reveal about the volatile inventory of the Moon?

Developing innovative microanalytical techniques and/or novel methods for the identification of forensic signatures within post-detonation materials and natural nuclear materials for the purpose of accurate and rapid source attribution.

My research focuses on the use of state-of-the-art instrumentation housed within the NSF-funded MITERAC ICP-MS Facility, which includes: Attom HR-ICP-MS instrument (Nu Instruments), MC-ICP-MS (NuPlasmaII), and two laser ablation systems (ESI-NWR 193 Excimer and UP213 Nd:YAG). Our sample preparation areas feature two class-1000 clean room laboratories. Graduate students and faculty also have access to a multitude of other instrumentation here at Notre Dame, such as an ORBIS micro-XRF, Electron Microprobe, and Delta V Plus mass spectrometer for stable isotope analyses.