Looking at the chemical and isotopic signatures of rocks in combination with geochronological information and detailed observation of field appearance, this group aims to unravel the evolution of magmatic and metamorphic rocks in different tectonic environments. We study how magmatic and volcanic rocks are emplaced, how they interact with their host rocks and eventually how these processes may affect the environment (ocean, atmosphere and biosphere).
In addition we study the Wilson cycle, from rift to drift to accretion and continental collision, with particular emphasis on the Oslo Rift, the North Atlantic Igneous Province and the break-up of the Atlantic, and the Caledonian Orogeny as examples of these different stages. Particular research focus is also directed to Large Igneous Provinces that both reflect important mantle and crustal processes - such as plume generation, upwelling, partial melting and magma emplacement - and may cause devastating perturbations to the environment and life.