Dr. Claire Ruggles

EDUCATION

PhD, Structural Geology and Geophysics, University of Wisconsin - Madison (2026)

MS, Structural Geology, Iowa State University (2020)

BS, Geology and Geophysics, University of Wisconsin - Madison (2018)

TEACHING STATEMENT

My teaching and mentoring philosophy is based upon three core actions: 1) employ a range of practices that accommodate diverse learning styles; 2) teach transferable skills and concepts for future careers through active learning; and 3) foster student success through care and wholeness, inside and out of the classroom.  I use hands-on, student-centered practices based on recognizing and adapting to the learning needs of my students.  This approach helps students better conceptualize and recognize the long-term importance of the course content and foster a sense of belonging and excitement for learning within our community.  

RESEARCH STATEMENT

I am a structural geologist and geophysicist studying the structural and tectonic controls on upper crustal magma emplacement and storage.  I seek to understand how structures impact the distribution of volcanism/magmatism and the relationship between magmatic and tectonic processes over both human and geologic timescales.  To do so, I study magma emplacement processes in the plutonic record using structural approaches (strain analysis, field mapping, structural petrology, geochronology) and at active volcanic sites using geophysical methods (gravity, geodesy, numerical modeling).  This approach allows me to learn more about processes including magma emplacement, host rock deformation, regional tectonics, volcanic hazards, and resource potential.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Students interested in magmatic and/or tectonic processes as well as structural and/or geophysical methods are encouraged to reach out to me via email.  More information on my research can be found on my personal website and in the publications listed below.