Professor Dr. William Carlson

Biography

William D. Carlson is a Professor Emeritus in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at the Jackson School of Geosciences, University of Texas at Austin. His research primarily focuses on metamorphic petrology and geochemistry, particularly the rates and mechanisms of geochemical processes in the deep crust. Carlson joined the faculty at UT in 1980, having completed his B.S. degree in Geology at Stanford University and his Ph.D. in Earth and Space Sciences at UCLA. Throughout his career, he has made significant contributions to understanding nucleation and growth mechanisms in metamorphic reactions, and has developed geological applications for high-resolution X-ray computed tomography. He has received numerous accolades for his teaching, including the Regents' Outstanding Teaching Award and induction into the University Academy of Distinguished Teachers. His work in establishing the Jackson School as an autonomous college-level entity and his leadership roles have further distinguished his career. Carlson's honored research includes investigations into atomic-scale mechanisms of garnet growth and the kinetics of metamorphic crystallization. He is a fellow of several professional societies and the recipient of the Dana Medal from the Mineralogical Society of America for his outstanding scientific contributions.

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