Unraveling the igneous and overprinting alteration histories of volcanic terrains on Earth and Mars

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Diverse igneous, aqueous alteration, and sedimentary processes influence volcanic and volcaniclastic rocks on Earth and Mars. As a Canadian Space Agency (CSA)-supported Participating Scientist on the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) mission, I am interested in differentiating the relative contributions of these processes for the investigation of terrestrial geologic problems that are also relevant to understanding the evolution of Mars, including the character of the Martian mantle and potential for microbial life. The MSL Curiosity rover has encountered a diverse suite of lithologies, including evolved alkaline igneous rocks, clay-rich basaltic mudstones, sandstones, and conglomerates. Complementary terrestrial studies critically influence our interpretations of the environment and conditions under which these rocks formed. Proposed research includes: