Dr. Sheehan's research is focused on the geophysical study of earthquakes, tsunamis, and the crust and upper mantle of the Earth and its relation to earthquake hazards and tectonic deformation. Sheehan's projects include geophysical studies in New Zealand, Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, and the Rocky Mountains and Rio Grande Rift of Colorado and New Mexico. Much of Sheehan's work includes the deployment of portable seismometers both on-land and in oceanic regions (ocean bottom seismometers). The seismometers record both distant and local earthquakes. The earthquakes are used as signals to image subsurface structure and to study earthquake source characteristics. Sheehan has led experiments that use ocean bottom seismometers offshore New Zealand and Alaska. Sheehan is an expert on earthquakes in the Rocky Mountain region, including those induced by human activities.
keywords
geophysics, earthquakes, tsunamis, deep Earth structure, crust and mantle structure, seismology, geology, mountains, plate tectonics, induced earthquakes
GEOL 1170 - Our Deadly Planet
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Fall 2020 / Fall 2022
This course investigates those events so dramatic and catastrophic that they have left evidence in the geologic record that suggest they significantly impacted life on the planet. These include. but are not limited to, violent volcanic eruptions, mega-earthquakes and associated tsunamis, landslides and sector collapse on volcanoes, megafloods, rapid climatic change, superstorms, and impacts from asteroids and comets. The intent is to use examples from recent events and processes to frame and interpret evidence for these types of events observed in the rock record.
GEOL 3330 - Principles of Geophysics
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2021 / Spring 2023
Provides an introduction to fundamental geophysics including seismology, geomagnetism, gravity, and electromagnetic methods with applications to plate tectonics and exploration of the subsurface.
GEOL 4130 - Principles of Geophysics
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2018 / Spring 2019
Provides an introduction to fundamental geophysics including seismology, geomagnetism, gravity, and electromagnetic methods with applications to plate tectonics and exploration of the subsurface.
GEOL 4714 - Field Geophysics
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Spring 2018
Applies geophysical field techniques and data interpretation to studying geological and engineering problems. Fieldwork includes seismic, gravity, magnetic, and electrical measurements.
GEOL 5101 - Introduction to Geological Sciences Faculty I
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Fall 2023
Welcomes and introduces all new graduate students to the Department of Geological Sciences. Faculty discuss their research and their academic trajectories. The week's geology colloquium is discussed. Tutorials from staff introduce how the university works, what funding opportunities exist, and how and when to apply for such funding.
GEOL 5102 - Introduction to Geological Sciences Faculty II
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2024
Continues to introduce all new graduate students to the Department of Geological Sciences. Faculty discuss their research and their academic trajectories. The week's geology colloquium is discussed. In addition, students craft reports on their intended research.
GEOL 6650 - Seminar in Geophysics
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Fall 2018 / Spring 2019 / Fall 2022 / Fall 2023
Advanced seminar studies in geophysical subjects for graduate students. May be repeated up to 6 total credit hours. Same as ASTR 6650 and PHYS 6650.
GEOL 6670 - Geophysical Inverse Theory
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2021
Principles of geophysical inverse theory as applied to problems in the Earth sciences, including topography, Earth structure and earthquake locations. Department enforced prerequisites: a course in calculus and a course in computer programming (any language). Same as PHYS 6670.
GEOL 6950 - Master's Thesis
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Fall 2019 / Spring 2020 / Fall 2020 / Fall 2023 / Spring 2024
May be repeated up to 6 total credit hours.
PHYS 6650 - Seminar in Geophysics
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Fall 2022 / Fall 2023
Advanced seminar studies in geophysical subjects for graduate students. Same as GEOL 6650 and GEOL 6650.
PHYS 6670 - Geophysical Inverse Theory
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2021
Principles of geophysical inverse theory as applied to problems in the Earth sciences, including topography, Earth structure and earthquake locations. Recommended prerequisites: a course in calculus and a course in computer programming (any language). Same as GEOL 6670.
