Nysha Chaderton Ph.D. candidate, geology Barbados "I love that my research is focused on the Barbados accretionary prism and the adjacent Tobago Basin and that the results of my work have the potential to have a significant impact on the oil and gas industry of my country and will also lend insight into the hydrocarbon potential of similar geological settings around the world."
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Ph.D. advisor and areas of interest

Dr. Lesli J. Wood, hydrocarbon exploration, clastic basin analysis

Other degrees

B.S., geology, University of the West Indies, Mona, Jamaica, 2001
M.S., geology, The University of Texas at Austin, 2005

Title of thesis/dissertation

Coarse-grained turbidite deposits of the Scotland Formation, Barbados, West Indies

What sparked your interest in geology?

I first became interested in geology in secondary school where I was part of a program called the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, which involved a great deal of hiking around the island. I was fascinated by the differences between the landscape in the eastern portion of Barbados compared with the rest of the island, and I badgered my geography teachers about the reasons for this. The explanation that the differences in rock types led to differences in the surface topography just further fueled my curiosity about the Earth and Earth processes, and my love of geology was born.

Why did you choose the Jackson School’s UT Department of Geological Sciences for your studies?

I came to UT primarily to work with my supervisor, Dr. Lesli Wood, who has done extensive research in the Southeastern Caribbean region. However, the Jackson School’s support package was a big part of my decision because as an international student it is often difficult to get support for graduate studies.

What do you enjoy the most about your studies or research? About working at the Jackson School?

I love that my research is focused on the Barbados accretionary prism and the adjacent Tobago Basin and that the results of my work have the potential to have a significant impact on the oil and gas industry of my country and will also lend insight into the hydrocarbon potential of similar geological settings around the world. The great thing about working at the Jackson School is that there are so many facilities, researchers, professors and other students to draw on as resources for your research. The thing I love about being a part of the Jackson School is that even though we are all striving for excellence in our research, there is a sense of camaraderie amongst the graduate students that is amazing, and it extends not only to our social gatherings but also to giving support and encouragement while we write our theses, to giving research or technical assistance, to attending technical presentations and celebrating when it is all over.

Want to share any highlights such as awards, special events, or professional presentations of your work?

December 2004: AGU poster presentation
2005-2006: Chevron Scholarship

What one research tool could you not live without?

A petroleum workstation.

What are your career goals?

On completion of my degree I plan to embark on a career in the energy industry.

Where are you from?

Barbados, a small beautiful island in the Caribbean.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I’m an avid reader, but I also make time to hang out with friends and watch movies.

What is your favorite rock and why?

I love all rocks!

What fun activity would you recommend to an incoming UT student?

I’d recommend driving down to the Salt Lick with a big group. The atmosphere is relaxed, the barbeque is great, and you can bring your own beverages. It’s the perfect place to bond with old friends and get to know new ones.

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