Sean Peters
Visiting Assistant Professor of Earth and Climate Sciences
- Office
- McCardell Bicen Hall 429
- Tel
- (802) 443-2985
- seanp@middlebury.edu
- Office Hours
- Winter 2025: TWR 12 - 2 PM
There are two types of volcanoes: those that go boom and those that don’t go boom. I study the volcanoes that don’t go boom (mostly).
I am a volcanologist and planetary geologist fascinated by the formation and evolution of planetary surfaces. My work combines analog experiments, remote sensing (via orbital data), field work, and comparative planetology to investigate how fundamental geologic processes (e.g., volcanism) influence planetary interior and surface evolution. Prior to joining the Middlebury faculty, I taught English in Japan and later served as a Postdoctoral researcher at the University of Idaho.
While my scholarly interests continue to evolve, at present, my work broadly falls into two categories: volcano formation, evolution, and hazards and planetary geology. Current research interests include, but are not limited to, (1) how lava flows expand and thicken; (2) estimating emplacement conditions using preserved lava flow morphology; (3) distribution of effusive and explosive deposits on Mars; and (4) the importance of small explosive eruptions.
In addition to Earth, Mars, and volcanoes, I am happy to study other geological processes and planetary bodies. I am also excited to discuss potential collaborations and/or research ideas with students and colleagues. Feel free to check out my website and updated CV: https://seanipeters.com/
Courses Taught
ECSC 0111
Natural Hazards
Course Description
Natural Hazards
Despite increasing technological sophistication, modern civilization remains vulnerable to natural hazards such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, flooding, landslides, extraterrestrial impacts, and other events. In this course we will consider the geologic mechanisms behind these hazards, the societal implications of these hazards, and approaches to reducing risk. Case studies will be combined with exploration of fundamental geologic concepts to provide students a foundation for understanding risk exposure and evaluating approaches to hazard management. (Not open to students who have taken GEOL 0112 or 0170) 3 hrs. lect./1 hr. disc. (formerly GEOL 0111)
Terms Taught
Requirements
ECSC 0375
Physical Volcanology
Course Description
Physical Volcanology
In this course, we will detail one of the fundamental geologic processes acting across the Solar System – volcanism. We will study the fundamental principles that underlie volcanism, the different expressions observed at the surface, and predict what types of volcanism are expected under various conditions. We will integrate insights from observations, theory, and modelling to form a cohesive understanding of volcanic principles. This will entail why and how volcanism occurs, the formation of igneous rock, and the incorporation of volcanic deposits into the rock record. Likewise, we will use our terrestrial understanding as a jump off point to explore volcanic processes on other planets. A final project will invite students to apply the fundamental principles of volcanology learned during the semester to critically examine an active area of volcanology, develop the skills to critically analyze scientific data and literature, and effectively communicate their findings. (ECSC 0201 or permission of instructor. Recommended ECSC 0311 or GEOL 0311 or ECSC 0322 or GEOL 0322)
Terms Taught
ECSC 0500
Current
Upcoming
Readings & Research
Course Description
Readings and Research
Individual or group independent study, laboratory or field research projects, readings and discussion of timely topics in earth and environmental science. (Approval only) (formerly GEOL 0500)
Terms Taught
ECSC 0700
Upcoming
Senior Thesis Research
Course Description
Senior Thesis Research
Upon completion of ECSC 0400, all senior ECSC/GEOL majors will continue their independent senior thesis research by taking one unit of ECSC 0700. This research will culminate in a written thesis which must be orally defended. (Approval only) (formerly GEOL 0700)
Terms Taught
ECSC 0701
Upcoming
Senior Thesis Research
Course Description
Senior Thesis Research
Optional second semester or Senior Work for students undertaking a full-year thesis project. (Approval only)
Terms Taught
ECSC 0705
Upcoming
Coll Capstone Research Seminar
Course Description
Collaborative Capstone Research Seminar
This course features group research on community-connected projects that capitalize on student skills and knowledge developed through previous coursework and related experiences to meet objectives that are important to the community partners. Projects are guided by a faculty member with a high level of independent group work by the students. The course contains elements of readings and discussion, analysis and interpretation, collaboration with project partners, and development of written group thesis projects, culminating with a public presentation and dissemination of the written document. 3 hrs. sem., 3 hrs. lab.
Terms Taught
ECSC 1005
Current
Geology of Rocky Planets
Course Description
Geology of Rocky Planets
In this course, we will explore four rocky planets of the inner solar system (Mercury, Venus, the Moon, and Mars) and the fundamental geologic processes acting on their surfaces (volcanism, tectonism, impact cratering, and erosion/degradation). We will study how these processes have interacted to form the surfaces we see today and what those processes mean for the interior evolution of rocky bodies. Furthermore, we will use the 2023-2032 Decadal Survey as a guiding document to identify existing knowledge gaps and explore priority targets for future space missions. Naturally, the processes and landforms we investigate will link back to first principles and fundamental concepts developed on Earth Given the condensed time frame of the January term, we will have smaller daily assignments (e.g., reading annotations), GIS activities using planetary data, and weekly assessments. A final project will invite students to select the mission that is most appealing to their group, with emphasis on the instrumentation necessary to address their knowledge gaps of interest. Students will apply the fundamental principles of earth and climate science learned in other courses, including but not limited to developing skills to critically analyze scientific data and literature, data analysis via geographic information systems, and effectively communicate their findings.(ECSC 0100 or PHYS 0100 or instructor approval)
Terms Taught
Requirements