Stephanie Sparks Email and Phone Number

Dissertation: Lithosphere-scale deformation of the eastern HimalayaMy dissertation research aims to reconcile observations that are not consistent with current simplistic models for the evolution of collisional mountain ranges like the Himalaya. Existing models are broadly consistent with field observations and deformation records derived from analyses of transects spanning the major rock sections and bounding faults in the Himalaya. The limitations of these models, however, become evident through more detailed observation. Specifically, model departures occur in the eastern Himalaya, which includes eastern Nepal, Sikkim, and western Bhutan.

Thesis: Influence of bedrock erodibility on orogen evolution in collisional systems and implications for geodynamic models.Theoretical and numerical geodynamic models of continental collisional systems often involve, either explicitly or implicitly, a necessary yet complicated dependence between tectonics and erosion; however, the exact nature of these relationships remains elusive and controversial. In such models for the Himalayan-Tibetan (H-T) collisional orogen, surface processes are theorized or in some cases required to play an essential role In modulating critical processes active in the evolution of that system. To investigate, at least to first order. these interactions between climate and tectonics, I generated a simplified landscape evolution model of an actively uplifting orogenic wedge acted upon by surface processes. I varied parameters in the equations governing landscape evolution and make observations of the topographic evolution response in the active orogen. I used comparisons with the topography of the modern HT system, along with measured thrust, uplift and erosion rates, to establish erodibility parameter (K) values consistent with observations from the modern Himalayan-Tibetan (HT) orogenic system. These values were then used to assess the viability of uplift and erodibility conditions required in current HT geodynamic models, including crustal channel flow.

Assisted on international matters by providing information and support to six Office of Science Programs to facilitate scientific collaborations. Also collected, analyzed, and archived data on international interactions within the Office of Science, and served as an international program liaison within and outside of the Department of Energy.

Performed comprehensive characterization of melt-blown polymer nanofiber nonwoven mats. Materials characterization was used primarily for materials selection and product assessment used in process optimization. Additional work included design and execution of composite fiber delamination experiment.

Courses: Aerospace Engineering Materials, Materials Engineering Laboratory I and II, Fundamentals of Materials EngineeringPrepared course materials including homework solution keys. Held weekly office hours for general course assistance and student conferences to discuss progress. Graded weekly homework assignments, laboratory reports, and term papers and assisted with grading exams.

Used computational fluid dynamics to model downstream processing of microorganisms. Made recommendations for operation optimization based on three-dimensional models of an industrial spray dryer for improved product yield.