Michael Manga
Michael Manga received his B.S. in geophysics from McGill University in 1990, his M.S. in engineering sciences from Harvard University in 1992, and as his Ph.D in Earth and Planetary Science also from Harvard University in 1994.
His current research interests focusses on geological processes involving fluids, including problems in physical volcanology, geodynamics, hydrogeology, and geomorphology, all of which relate to his attempt to develop a better quantitative understanding of physical processes operating in the Earth. Integrating observations and field data (both of active processes and recorded in the geologic record) with theoretical and model results is also an essential component of his research. Often the fluid mechanics needed for the understanding he is pursuing have not yet been studied. Consequently, his research also involves new contributions in applied mechanics. Recent contributions along these lines include studies of convection, the properties and dynamics of suspensions, flow and transport in porous materials, percolation theory, and high pressure mineral physics.
In the News
Mars’ oceans formed early, possibly aided by massive volcanic eruptions
How X-rays Helped to Solve Mystery of Floating Rocks
Study links Texas earthquakes to wastewater injection
Did dinosaur-killing asteroid trigger largest lava flows on Earth?
The asteroid that slammed into the ocean off Mexico 66 million years ago and killed off the dinosaurs probably rang the Earth like a bell, triggering volcanic eruptions around the globe, according to a team of UC Berkeley geophysicists. The impact may have re-ignited the eruptions at the Deccan Traps, initiating the largest lava flows on Earth.
Strongest evidence to date links exploration well to Lusi mud volcano
New data provide the strongest evidence to date that the world's biggest mud volcano, which killed 13 people in 2006 and so far has displaced 30,000 people in East Java, Indonesia, was not caused by an earthquake, according to an international scientific team that includes researchers from Durham University and the UC Berkeley.