Marc M. Hirschmann

Studies the dynamics and consequences of melting in Earth's mantle.  Quantifies the effects of heterogeneous mineralogy and of volatiles using theoretical and laboratory studies. These constitute definitive work on the controls of the depth, production, and composition of magma from Earth’s mantle. Early work centered on melting of heterogeneities within an otherwise homogeneous mantle and demonstrated that heterogeneities play key roles in origin of basalt. Pioneered studies of connection between melting and deep Earth H2O and CO2 cycles. Recent work on C and H under different redox conditions predict rich dynamics and novel compositions for early planetary interiors and atmospheres.