From Tonga's eruption to Guadalupe's secrets: A student's volcanic quest
Kris Wang, a fourth-year undergraduate at Scripps Oceanography, balances a demanding schedule while pursuing his passion for geosciences. His focus lies in volcanology and igneous petrology, fields that have indeed shaped his academic journey at UC San Diego. Between classes, lab work, and research, Wang's days are packed with hands-on learning.
His fascination with Earth's fiery forces grew after witnessing the dramatic 2022 eruption of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano. Now, under the guidance of Scripps geologist Emily Chin, he is uncovering the secrets of Guadalupe Island's volcanic past.
Wang's path to geosciences began in middle school, where family trips and outdoor adventures sparked his curiosity. But it was the explosive 2022 eruption of Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai that cemented his interest in volcanology. The event left him in awe, pushing him toward studying the forces that shape Earth's crust.
At Scripps, his research centres on Guadalupe Island, a volcanic shield off Baja California. Using advanced tools like energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and a scanning electron microscope (SEM), he analyses the chemical makeup of igneous rocks. His work involves mapping mineral textures, including zoning patterns in olivine and plagioclase crystals—discoveries he finds particularly thrilling.
Beyond lab research, Wang is constructing a data system in QGIS to visualize geochemical findings. His mentors, including James Worthington, James Muller, and Professor Geoff Cook, have played key roles in guiding his progress. Yet, time remains his biggest hurdle, as he juggles coursework, research, and part-time work.
Despite the challenges, Wang's dedication is clear. Whether attending lectures, studying in the Eckart Building lounge, or poring over rock samples, he remains driven by the mysteries hidden in Earth's volcanic landscapes.
Wang's research on Guadalupe Island contributes to a deeper understanding of its Earth day origins. His use of SEM and QGIS mapping provides concrete data on the island's geology. As he nears the end of his undergraduate studies, his work stands as a testament to the blend of curiosity, mentorship, and perseverance in scientific discovery.
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