Ikuko Wada

My research interests lie in the area of subduction geodynamics. One of my goals is to provide a better understanding of physical conditions that control geophysical and geochemical processes in subduction zones, such as megathrust earthquakes, intraslab earthquakes, mantle wedge flow, transport of volatiles, generation of melts, and arc volcanism. These processes depend on various factors, including temperature, stress, pore fluid pressure, volatile contents, and mineral grain size. I use numerical models and a range of geophysical observations, petrological and geochemical data, and laboratory results, to constrain the spatial and temporal variations in these quantities in subduction zones. For information on current research and student/postdoc opportunities, please visit my research group webpage: geodynamics.umn.edu