Mike Willis

Name: Mike Willis Status: Ph.D. Undergraduate University: Glasgow University, Scotland Research Interests: Active tectonics, Glaciology, Postglacial Rebound, Remote Sensing, Natural Hazards, Geodesy.

Why did you choose Ohio State?
I originally came to do glaciology with Ian Whillans and Gordon Hamilton, after a bit of a disaster first season in the field I ended up gallivanting around the Transantarctic Mountains with Terry and Ian. What more could I want? It helps that the BPRC is one of the most respected polar research institutes in the world, we’d even heard of it in Scotland!

Why did you choose to work with Terry?
After my M.Sc. in the subject it was a natural progression to come on and work with Terry for my PhD. Terry gives me independence when I need it and mentorship when I need that too.

What is your most memorable or favorite moment from the field?
Too many to list. Scary memorable, happy memorable, excited memorable. Lets go with happy and in Antarctica. First year on the ice at the Warren Range. Absolute complete utter silence. The only noise being the blood in my veins. Complete solitude surrounded by the stunning splendour of the mountains. Thought to myself “ This is what I need to be doing.” Been pretty much addicted since.

What do you hope to do after graduate school?
Earn some money somehow! Post-Doc then have a blend of teaching and research. I have lots of ideas of things to do in the future and am keen to get to them.

Favorite quote?
“I have no idea what I am doing, that’s why its called research” – Einstein (allegedly)

What advice would you give to incoming students?
Try to find a balance, stay curious, make mistakes and learn.