CAMBRIDGE VOLCANOLOGY GROUP

The CVG mission is to:

· Undertake pioneering research into the processes, monitoring, and impacts of volcanism by combining field, remote sensing, laboratory and theoretical approaches

· Provide and support volcanological training and research at undergraduate, postgraduate and postdoctoral levels

· Interface research activities with the volcano observatory community and other end users

· Promote public understanding of volcanology

Research themes

The CVG comprises around 30 researchers spread across several University Departments and other institutes in Cambridge (click here for a list of members). Research focuses on development of novel volcano surveillance techniques, detailed investigations of individual volcanoes and significant eruptions, fundamental studies of volcano-atmosphere-climate interactions, experimental work on eruption dynamics, and petrological and geochemical studies of the evolution of magmas. Current projects include design and deployment of new gas monitoring sensors at Soufrière Hills Volcano, Montserrat, experimental simulations of explosive-effusive transitions in basaltic eruptions, field and computer modelling investigations of the atmospheric, environmental and health impacts of volcanic gases and aerosols, development of new risk assessment methods for the potential impacts of volcanic mudflows in cities, radar interferometry measurements of volcano deformation, and geophysics-based studies of the geomorphology and tectonics of giant volcanic ridges.

Volcanological seminars in Cambridge

Current programme Past programmes (m02)

Teaching & research

Undergraduate courses in volcanology are taught in the Earth Sciences and Geography Departments. Volcanology modules are also available in the Master of Philosophy courses GIS and Remote Sensing, and Quaternary Science, administered by the Department of Geography. There are typically 10-15 doctoral students working in volcanology at any one time in the University.