Catherine Cooper

Biography

I have been at WSU since 2008 in the School of the Environment. My research focuses on the thermal and tectonic evolution of the Earth (and other planetary bodies). Specifically, I am drawn to such questions as: why do some areas of the Earth deform whereas others do not, do continents play more of a role than just passive riders in plate tectonics, why is plate tectonics preferred on Earth and not other planets, how long has plate tectonics operated on Earth and what existed before, why are there regions of the Earth that have resisted the destructive forces of plate tectonics for billions of years and what can these areas tell us about the history of our planet? I’m also beginning a new research adventure – exploring the viability of plate tectonics operating on the icy moon of Jupiter, Europa, which demonstrates observational evidence for behavior similar to plate tectonics. A favorite component of my job is to share my passion for geology with students. I teach a variety of courses on campus where I get to highlight the processes that mold and shape our planet, showcase the major events on Earth from its origin to present day, and encourage mathematical approaches to problem solving in the geosciences. When I’m not doing or teaching science, I strive to help make science a more inclusive community for all whether that’s by being an active advocate/mentor, unabashedly being myself or serving in ways that I hope do make a difference.

Research Interests

• Geodynamics
• Plate tectonics/mantle convection
• Planetary evolution
• Lithospheric creation and deformation
• Early earth processes