Evie Allison

Tell us about your work/research. What kinds of things do you do?

I am currently studying volcanic flow samples from cores taken off the coast of the big island of Hawaii. I am trying to extrapolate where these flows erupted, their mother volcanoes, their ages, and how they fit into the overall evolution of the big island and the Hawaiian islands. I am using XRF, ICP-MS, and thin section analysis to complete this project for my master's.

What sparked your initial interest in your career?

I became interested in volcanology the summer before sixth grade when my family took a trip to Yellowstone National Park. That vacation opened my eyes to the beauty of volcanology and I will never forget it. When I had to choose a major for college, it was easy to pick one that would both keep me entertained, and kick start my career in volcanology - geology.

Who influenced you or encouraged you the most?

My undergraduate volcanology professor Geoffrey Cook from Scripps Institution of Oceanography was the most inspiring and encouraging person in my career. He was not only an amazing teaching professor, but an amazing mentor who helped me realize that my dream of working at a USGS volcano observatory was possible.

What element of your work/study do you think is the most fascinating?

I find the physical observations of rocks the most interesting. I don't think I will ever get tired of looking at the beautiful olivine crystals Mother Earth has created in my samples.

How did you get involved with the Ocean Exploration Trust?

My mentor Katie Kelley at GSO put me in touch with Ocean Exploration Trust to help me fulfill my master's cruise requirement and further my knowledge in characterizing volcanic eruptions.

What other jobs led you to your current career?

I accredit my undergraduate research at SIO for getting me into grad school and setting my foundational knowledge of geology and volcanology. At SIO, I worked with Jeffrey Gee and studied magnetite crystals from the Laramie anorthosite to determine if there was any correlation between the mineral fabric and geomagnetic properties. The coding and EBSD data I worked with really prepared me for the techniques I will be using in my master's research.

What are your degrees and certifications?

I graduated from SIO at the University of California San Diego in 2024 with a B.S. in Earth Sciences. I also have a class B, passenger endorsed commercial driver's license.

What are your hobbies?

I am a big home body, but when I'm not relaxing, I love to hike and swim!

What advice would you give someone who wants to have a career like yours?

To anyone who wants a career in volcanology, or any niche earth science field, just go for it! Why waste time studying a topic that bores you to death, when you could start learning about something you actually like. I think it is a real shame that people choose a major or career for the financial gain. We will always need to learn more about Earth as we continue inhabiting her, so go make a career out of it!