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Sophie Briggs 2019 imageBSc(Hons) (Otago) PhD(UCSB)

  • Petrology (igneous and metamorphic)
  • Geochemistry
  • Geochronology
  • Tectonics

Tel +64 3 479 7567
Email sophie.briggs@otago.ac.nz
Google Scholar: Sophie Briggs
ORCIDorcid.org/0000-0003-4286-8740

Research Interests

My research focuses on unravelling the tectonic and geochemical evolution of Earth's crust, using information recorded by high-temperature geochronometers (zircon, monazite, xenotime and garnet). Common to all of my research projects is the use of isotopic and elemental analysis of these minerals by ICP-MS ('petrochronology'). My recent PhD research involves the application of these techniques to New Zealand's Alpine Schist, which provides a record of the tectonic processes at play during the separation of Zealandia and Gondwana.

Figure 1: GEOL252 students examine turbudute deposits at Benmore dam during Maerewhenua summer field camp.
Figure 1: GEOL 252 students examine turbidite deposits at Benmore dam during Maerewhenua summer field camp.

Figure 2: Field work in the Mataketake Range, South Island, New Zealand.
Figure 2: Field work in the Mataketake Range, South Island, New Zealand.

Teaching

Publications

Nelson, F., & Briggs, S. (2023). Tools and techniques for extending geoscience outreach into Early Childhood Education settings. In G. E. Frontin-Rollett & S. D. Nodder (Eds.), Geoscience Society of New Zealand Miscellaneous Publication. 164A, (pp. 172). Wellington, New Zealand: Geoscience Society of New Zealand. [Abstract] Conference Contribution - Published proceedings: Abstract

Briggs, S., & Nelson, F. (2023). Engaging preschool children with geoscience: Challenges and opportunities. In G. E. Frontin-Rollett & S. D. Nodder (Eds.), Geoscience Society of New Zealand Miscellaneous Publication. 164A, (pp. 34). Wellington, New Zealand: Geoscience Society of New Zealand. [Abstract] Conference Contribution - Published proceedings: Abstract

Briggs, S. (2020). School of rocks: Engaging students in earth science and geologic heritage. In K. N. Bassett, A. R. L. Nichols & C. H. Fenton (Eds.), Geoscience Society of New Zealand Miscellaneous Publication. 157A, (pp. 48). Wellington, New Zealand: Geoscience Society of New Zealand. [Abstract] Conference Contribution - Published proceedings: Abstract

Briggs, S. (2019). Waitaki Whitestone Geopark: UNESCO Global Geopark in the making. Proceedings of the New Zealand Snow and Ice Research Group (SIRG) Workshop. (pp. 28). Retrieved from https://sirg.org.nz Conference Contribution - Published proceedings: Abstract

Briggs, S. I., & Cottle, J. M. (2018). Accessory mineral petrochronology reveals 30 m.y. of partial melting during the separation of Zealandia from eastern Gondwana. Lithosphere, 11(1), 169-189. doi: 10.1130/L1021.1 Journal - Research Article

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