Dr. Gail Mahood

Professor

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Biography

Gail Mahood is a Professor Emerita in the Department of Geological Sciences at Stanford University, where she served for 40 years. Her research focuses on field-based petrologic studies of silicic magmatism and the geologic processes forming rhyolitic caldera complexes. Mahood has conducted extensive mapping of rhyolite calderas in Nevada, Oregon, and Idaho, examining volcanic activity related to the initiation of the Snake River Plain-Yellowstone hotspot track and the formation of lithium deposits. Throughout her career, she has contributed significantly to university governance, including roles as Department Chair and Associate Vice Provost for Graduate Education. Mahood is noted for her engagement in geoscience education, leading study trips and teaching courses ranging from introductory geology to specialized graduate seminars in igneous petrogenesis and physical volcanology. She holds a Ph.D. in Geology from the University of California and has received several honors, including being a Fellow of both the Society of Economic Geologists and the Geological Society of America.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor Emerita

— Present

Stanford University • Stanford, CA

Served as a faculty member, focusing on research and administration in geological sciences.

Professor

— Present

Stanford University • Stanford, CA

Conducted research and teaching in geological sciences, focusing on igneous petrology and volcanology.

Chair

— Present

Faculty Senate, Stanford University • Stanford, CA

Led the faculty senate and represented faculty interests.

Member

— Present

Provost Condoleeza Rice's Advisory Committee • Stanford, CA

Advised the Provost on budget and strategic planning.

Associate Vice Provost

— Present

Graduate Education, Stanford University • Stanford, CA

Oversaw graduate education policies and practices.

Chair

— Present

Advisory Board, Stanford University • Stanford, CA

Reviewed faculty appointments and promotions.

Requirements for Stanford University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:26
Reading
Required:26
Writing
Required:26
Speaking
Required:26
Total
Required:100
GRE General
Verbal
Required:160
Quantitative
Required:165
Analytical Writing
Required:4.5
Overall
Required:4.5
Prerequisites
Bachelor degree from an accredited institution Strong background in mathematics and programming
Application Checklist
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Official transcripts
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

The Computer Science department emphasizes research potential. GRE General is currently optional but recommended for some tracks.