Science Pub: Ophiolites & Plate Tectonics

At Dargan's Irish Pub & Restaurant, 18 E. Ortega Street

Ophiolites are pieces of oceanic crust that have been thrust onto the continents. They are relatively rare in the geologic record but can be found around the world, including near Lompoc and San Luis Obispo along the Central Coast of California. They have been used extensively to study the formation of the oceanic crust, and new research suggests they may provide important insight into other aspects of plate tectonics. UCSB Earth Science Teaching Professor Matt Rioux, Ph.D., will discuss his research on the origin of large ophiolites in Oman and Newfoundland and the implications of his work for plate tectonic processes.

Dr. Rioux completed his undergraduate education at Boston University, followed by a Ph.D. in Earth Science at UC Santa Barbara. He completed a post-doc at MIT before returning to UCSB as a research scientist. 

No tickets or reservations needed, but note that Science Pub is a popular program. Early birds get good seats, order food and drink at leisure, and enjoy a raffle to support science education and win Museum swag. Arriving close to 6:30 may land you in an overflow room or without a seat.

This event is part of the Museum’s ongoing Science Pub series of free science talks held on the second Monday of every month. Contact kzsembik@sbnature2.org for more information.

Photos by Matt Rioux