School of the Earth, Ocean and Environment

Geophysics and Seismology

Research includes the collection, analysis, and interpretation of seismic, geodetic, electrical, magnetic and gravity data.

Funded research projects include: large-scale lithospheric studies using active and passive seismic, GPS geodesy, and potential field data; petroleum exploration projects using 3-D industrial seismic data; studies of reservoir-induced seismicity; earthquake and environmental hazards analysis and seismic research contribution to monitoring the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. USC has one of the most active seismological field programs in the country. Projects spanning the globe focus on: lithospheric process investigations using active and passive seismological studies; processes of intraplate and induced seismicity; seismological problems of South Carolina; and seismological issues in monitoring and verifying a Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. USC hosts the South Carolina Seismic Network and has an active program in monitoring the state and studying prehistoric seismicity and paleoliquefaction features in the southeast.

Geophysics & Seismology Faculty

Dan Frost

I use seismic waves to investigate the structure of the Earth's interior to understand how the Earth has evolved since its formation. My focus is on pushing the resolution limit of our observations of Earth's structure so that we can better understand the dynamic processes operating inside. My recent research topics include: the fate of the slab subducting under Alaska, the pattern of mantle convection indicated by seismic tracers, layering in the outer core, and the growth history of the inner core.

Scott White

Most of the Earth's surface is hidden underwater, from the deep seafloor to wetland environments. Revealing the patterns and processes in these marine environments is the overarching theme of Scott's research group in marine geology and geophysics.

Challenge the conventional. Create the exceptional. No Limits.