Professor Mike Kendall

Professor Mike Kendall

Fellow

Chair of Geophysics, Department of Earth Sciences

Profile

Professor joined the Department of Earth Sciences in 2019 and holds the Chair in Geophysics at the University of Oxford; he became Head of the Department of Earth Sciences in March 2022.

His research interests encompass both pure and applied seismology across various scales. He is a seismologist who has conducted extensive work in diverse climates, from the hottest regions like Ethiopia to the coldest, such as Antarctica. His research delves into the Earth's depths, exploring topics like plate tectonics, volcanic activity, and ice sheets. He has led seismic field experiments in various environments, including deploying ocean-bottom seismometers along the mid-Atlantic Ridge and utilizing fiber-optic arrays to study ice-quakes in Antarctica. Additionally, he is passionate about understanding the role of geophysics in meeting global energy needs. Professor initiated the BUMPS research consortium and boasts a robust track record in seismic monitoring, particularly in Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) sites.

His was previously the BGS Professor of Geophysics at the University of Bristol. He earned his PhD from Queen’s University in Canada and served as a postdoctoral researcher at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in the USA. He has held faculty positions at the University of Toronto and the University of Leeds. Additionally, he has served as president of the British Geophysical Association and as Vice-President (Geophysics) of the Royal Astronomical Society. In 2011, Professor was elected Fellow of the American Geophysical Union, followed by being elected Fellow of the Royal Society in 2019 and Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada in 2022.

Professor received the RAS's highest honor, the Gold Medal, which is awarded for exemplary research or lifetime achievement, with only two given annually for geophysics and astronomy. It recognizes outstanding research and contributions to education and scientific administration. His diverse research in seismology, from Earth's mantle to industrial applications, addresses energy demands and sustainability. Notable contributions include seismic anisotropy studies and extensive fieldwork in Africa.Throughout his career, he has guided 37 students to earn their doctoral degrees, currently oversees the progress of 7 more, and has collaborated with 28 postdoctoral researchers.