About Shijie Zhong's Work
My group’s research is on understanding dynamic processes that control the thermal and chemical evolution of terrestrial planets and Moon at different temporal and spatial scales. We develop analytical and computational models of thermal convection for planetary mantles. These models are used for not only understanding the physics of thermal convection but also interpreting geophysical, geological and geochemical observations. In particular, our work on mechanisms of formation of globally asymmetric convective structure provides explanation for global scale features such as supercontinent formation on the Earth, crustal dichotomy and Tharsis Rise on Mars, and nearside-farside asymmetry in mare basalt distribution on the Moon. We are also interested in understanding the viscoelastic responses of terrestrial planets to different loading (tidal, sea-level, glaciation/deglaciation, and volcanic) and their constraints on mantle and lithospheric rheology. My other research interests include Earth-Moon interaction, Moon’s orbital evolution and exoplanets.
Awards and Achievements
Sloan Research Fellowship
NSF Career Award
Elected Fellow of American Geophysical Union