Congratulations to Allison Pease, Recipient of the AGU SEDI Graduate Research Award!
We are excited to announce that Dr. Allison Pease, PhD Recipient at Michigan State University (Advisor: Dr. Susannah Dorfman), currently a Postdoctoral Research Scholar at Arizona State University, has been selected for the American Geophysical Union (AGU) Study of the Earth’s Deep Interior (SEDI) Graduate Research Award.
This award is presented annually to one or two graduate student honorees whose research makes notable contributions to advancing our understanding of the deep interior of the Earth or other planetary bodies. Honorees may employ a wide range of observational, experimental, or theoretical approaches to explore these fundamental questions.
About the Award
AGU, the world’s largest Earth and space science association, celebrates individuals and teams through its annual Honors and Recognition Program. These awards honor accomplishments in research, education, science communication, and outreach. Honorees transform our understanding of the world, impact daily life, strengthen communities, and contribute to solutions for a sustainable future.
About Allison’s Research
Allison’s graduate research explores how iron–nitrogen–carbon alloys and lower mantle minerals respond to the extreme pressures and temperatures of planetary interiors.
Using high-pressure experimental techniques, she has:
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Examined the strength and spin transitions of Fe–N compounds
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Investigated the structure of molten Fe–light element alloys
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Studied the thermal behavior of davemaoite
Her findings provide new insights into the composition and dynamics of Earth’s deep interior and extend our understanding of the processes that shape other planetary bodies.
A Word from Allison
“I am honored to receive this award, which reflects years of hard work and the invaluable support of my mentors at Michigan State University, while also highlighting the critical role of experimental mineral physics in advancing our understanding of Earth’s interior and that of other planetary bodies.”
Looking Ahead
By receiving this honor, Allison joins a distinguished group of scientists, leaders, and communicators recognized by AGU for advancing Earth and space sciences.
She will be formally recognized at AGU25, held in New Orleans, Louisiana, December 15–19, 2025. This year’s theme, “Where Science Connects Us,” will highlight groundbreaking achievements that inspire the AGU community with stories of discovery, innovation, and impact.
