World-leading volcanology experts came together to discuss the latest research developments in volcanic plumbing systems at a global conference held in Liverpool.
The University of Liverpool’s Mechanical and Geological Model Analogues (MAGMA) Lab hosted the inaugural international conference of the IAVCEI Commission on Volcanic and Igneous Plumbing Systems (VIPS) on 18th-20th June.
The conference brought together nearly 100 international experts to discuss a wide range of geological and geophysical themes, including magma plumbing systems, magma transport, tectonics and volcanic-plutonic connections.
Understanding VIPS is critical as it enables researchers to monitor how magma in the earth’s crust is transported, stored and how it evolves, and ultimately help to forecast when and where eruptions are likely to occur.
Delegates convened for a day of practical workshops on campus led by lecturer Dr Katy Chamberlain and post-doctoral researchers Dr Caitlin Chalk and Dr Stefano Urbani, before Professor Janine Kavanagh, Chair of Volcanology, Department of Earth, Ocean and Ecological Sciences opened the two-day hybrid conference held at The Spine.
Professor Kavanagh’s keynote session focused on applying physical models of magma movement and geological evidence to understand underground dykes and sills, which are the major conduits that magma uses to reach the surface and feed eruptions.
Prof Steffi Burchardt, former president of VIPS
The programme featured several other keynotes from internationally recognised volcanologists including Dr Geoff Kilgour, GNS Science, New Zealand, Dr Prokop Závada, Czech Academy of Sciences, Dr Antonio Costa, National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology, Bologna, Dr Adelina Geyer, The Spanish National Research Council and Professor Steffi Burchardt, Uppsala University, Sweden (pictured above).
Professor Kavanagh said; “Understanding volcanic and igneous plumbing systems (VIPS) is essential for determining when and where the next volcanic eruption will be and requires a multidisciplinary and international approach. It was fantastic to host this first international conference for the IAVCEI VIPS Commission and lead discussions with this diverse research community as we define the priorities for VIPS research in the coming years”.
The main goal of the IAVCEI Commission on VIPS is to provide a forum for research beyond disciplinary or methodological boundaries, to foster an integrated understanding of magma transport and storage in the crust.
Professor Kavanagh, a UKRI Future Leaders Fellow, founded the MAGMA Lab to bring together scientists across disciplines to investigate the behaviour of volcanic and magmatic processes, with a particular focus on magma plumbing systems.
This year, the MAGMA lab celebrates its ten-year anniversary and you can find out more about their research projects by visiting liverpoolmagmalab.org. You can also follow the MAGMA Lab via their YouTube channel, X and on Instagram.
VIPs local organisaing committee