Alan Aitken

PhD candidate

Project Title
Potential field analysis of the structural evolution and architecture of the Musgrave Province.

Supervisor/s
Dr Peter Betts, Dr Laurent Ailleres and Dr Bruce Schaefer

Research Interests

• Applying potential field geophysics to understand tectonic sytems
• Developing linkages between small scale observations and large scale models
• Lithospheric processes in orogenic belts

Professional Affiliations

• AGU member
• SEG member

Professional Skills

• Experienced in the use of geophysical, GIS,and modelling software, including Oasis Montaj, ArcGIS, GMT, UBC mag3D/and grav3D, GoCad, VPMG and 3D Geomodeller.
• Scripting and algorithm development skills.

Technical Skills

• Geophysical Field Data Collection - Gravity, Magnetic, MT.
• Geophysical Instrument Field Maintenance.
• Differential GPS system setup.

Selected Publication History

• Aitken, A. R. A., and P. G. Betts (2008), High-resolution Aeromagnetic data over central Australia assist Grenville-era (1300-1100 Ma) Rodinia reconstructions., Geophysical Research Letters, 35, L01306, doi: 10.1029/2007GL031563.
• Aitken, A.R.A., Betts, P.G., Schaefer, B.F., Rye, S.E. (2008) Assessing uncertainty in integration of aeromagnetic data and structural observations in the Deering Hills region of the Musgrave Province. Australian Journal of Earth Sciences, 55.
• Aitken, A.R.A., Betts, P.G. (2007) Grenville-era crustal architecture of central Australia, and its importance in constraining Rodinia models. Eos, Trans., AGU 88; 52, Fall Meeting Supplement. Abstract T23D-1660.

Personal Interests

• Rock climbing.
• Cycle touring and travelling.
• Russian and 19th C. literature.