Erin Kraal

Research Scientist

+1.540.231.9120 (Phone)

+1.540.231.3386 (FAX)

4044 Derring Hall (0420)
Blacksburg, VA 24061

B.S., Geology, Washington and Lee, 1999
M.S., Earth Science, UC–Santa Cruz, 2001
Ph.D., Earth and Planetary Science, UC-Santa Cruz, 2006
NSF International Research Fellow, Utrecht University, The Netherlands

Research Interests:

My research focuses on understanding the formation and preservation of surface features under different planetary conditions – particularly those of Mars and Titan. Geomorphic features on those planets serve as powerful ‘climate proxies,’ providing rare glimpses into the long-term evolution of the climate. I use remote sensing data, laboratory experimental modeling, computational modeling, and field analogue studies to better understand how surface features form under a range of terrestrial and planetary driving conditions (i.e., gravity, atmospheric pressure, type of bedrock, presence of fluids). These results are used to further our understanding of past planetary climates. Active research projects include studying the deposition of fans, modeling small landslides, and the statistical distribution of geomorphic features on Mars.

Visit the VT planetary website at:

http://www.esp.geos.vt.edu/planetary/