Petrology & Microstructure

Crustal evolution at Simon Fraser University

My group's research is focused on understanding the chemical and physical processes operating deep within the Earth's crust. Our approach combines detailed field mapping with petrology and the study of mineral microstructure, which is the shape, size, and way that minerals fit together. By integrating elements of metamorphic and igneous petrology we view crustal evolution and as a combination of melt source and melt sink processes. To gain new insights into these processes, we combine data sourced from electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD), cathodoluminescence (CL), mineral chemistry, and image analysis with thermodynamic modelling.  

To find out more about current and upcoming research projects, check out the student opportunities page and get in touch. I am currently looking for PhD and MSc students. ​

News

  • December 2019: New paper in Annals of Glaciology using automated mineralogy to characterize sub-glacial processes.
  • October 2019: In-depth study of muscovite dehydration melting published in Journal of Metamorphic Geology.
  • August 2019: CFI funding awarded to set up a new SEM facility.
  • August 2019: New article in the Geological Society of London's special publication: "Himalayan Tectonics: A Modern Synthesis"
  • July 2019: New paper in EPSL on the influence of mantle temperature on slab buoyancy. 
  • June 2019: New article in GSAB on the evolution of Naxos.
  • January 2019: Welcome to PhD student Will Mckenzie who will examine the Jura-Cretaceous tectonic evolution of the Cordillera.
  • March 2018: New paper in Geoscience Frontiers exploring the pre-Himalayan Indian margin architecture with  U-Pb with Hf isotopes.
  • January 2018: Two new papers (1 & 2) in Geoscience Frontiers on how the metamorphism of continental margins and oceanic crust has evolved through time.
  • December 2017: New paper in Nature on the fate of Earth and Mars' early hydrosphere.
​
​Dr. Brendan Dyck
Assistant Professor
Department of Earth Sciences
Simon Fraser University
8888 University Drive
Burnaby, V5A 1S6, Canada

Email: brendan_dyck@sfu.ca
Phone: (+1) 778-782-5389