Jonathon Syrek

Email: jsyrek at email.unc.edu
Office: Mitchell Hall 208

B.S., Geological Sciences, University of Michigan, 2010
M.S., UNC Chapel Hill, current

My research, in the field of geomorphology, focuses on variations in rock resistance and rock uplift rate and how these two variables affect river channel morphology and bedrock river incision rates across the Andes Mountains in southern Bolivia. I aim to quantify these incision rates and stream morphologies by using a calibrated stream power model. For example, I will quantify river channel width, steepness, and concavity across changes in rock uplift rate and rock resistance. The motivation for this research is to establish a quantitative understanding of the processes and styles of fluvial channel response to variations in lithology and tectonics and use this knowledge to infer past landscapes and better understand the future evolution of mountain ranges. I work with my advisor, Jason Barnes, and the Earth Surface Processes & Tectonics group.

If I ever find time to get out of the office, then I enjoy golfing, traveling, watching college football and basketball, and enjoying a hot summer day on the lawn with a glass of scotch.