My research centers on deciphering the mechanical evolution of geological structures. Most recently I have been doing finite-element modeling of deformation in brittle-ductile systems—primarily directed toward salt tectonics. Computer models reveal causative stress and resulting strain distributions during extension, contraction, and synkinematic sedimentation. Field work in the Paradox Basin of eastern Utah augments the modeling.

Another area of interest is cross-section balancing and restoration for extensional terrains, for which I use commercial software, as well as my own code that I developed for the Macintosh computer using a full range of graphical interface features.

Previous research includes quantitative modeling and interpretation of three-dimensional finite-strain patterns and their relation to tectonic regimes, application of mathematical finite-strain theory to actual field examples of deformed rock, and computer simulation of cumulative strain histories.

B.A. Geology, Carleton College, Northfield, Minnesota, 1978

University of Otago, New Zealand, 1978–1980

M.S. Geological Sciences, Brown University, Providence, 1982

Ph.D. Geology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, 1988

Assistant Professor, Colorado College, Colorado Springs, 1986–1988

Schultz-Ela, D. D., and Walsh, P., in press, Modeling of grabens extending above evaporites in Canyonlands National Park, Utah: Journal of Structural Geology.

Schultz-Ela, D. D., 2001, Excursus on gravity gliding and gravity spreading: Journal of Structural Geology, v. 23, p. 725–731.

Jackson, M. P. A., Schultz-Ela, D. D., Hudec, M. R., Watson, I. A., and Porter, M. L., 1998, Structure and evolution of Upheaval Dome: a pinched-off salt diapir: Geological Society of America Bulletin, v. 110, p. 1547–1573.

Schultz-Ela, D. D., and Jackson, M. P. A., 1996, Relation of subsalt structures to suprasalt structures during extension: American Association of Petroleum Geologists Bulletin, v. 80, no. 12, p. 1896–1924.

Schultz-Ela, D. D., Jackson, M. P. A., and Vendeville, B. C., 1993, Mechanics of active salt diapirism: Tectonophysics, v. 228, p. 275–312.

Peer reviewer for Journal of Structural Geology, American Association of Petroleum Geologists Bulletin, Geological Society of America Bulletin, Society of Petroleum Engineers, Tectonophysics

Reviewer of grant proposals for National Science Foundation

Graduation Magna Cum Laude with Distinction in Geology, Carleton College, 1978

Fulbright Full Grant for graduate study and research in New Zealand, 1978–1980

Daniel D. Schultz-Ela, Ph.D.
Research Scientist
Bureau of Economic Geology
The University of Texas at Austin
University Station, Box X
Austin, Texas 78713-8924
E-mail: dan.schultzela@beg.utexas.edu
Telephone: 512-471-4335