Walter Mooney
About Walter Mooney
Walter Mooney is a research seismologist and geophysicist at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) in Menlo Park, California, where he has worked since 1978. He holds a Ph.D. in Geophysics from the University of Wisconsin and has contributed significantly to seismology through various international collaborations and leadership roles.
Work at U.S. Geological Survey
Walter Mooney has worked at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) since 1978, serving as a Research Seismologist and Geophysicist. His tenure spans over 46 years in Menlo Park, California. During his time at USGS, he has held various roles, including Chief of the USGS Branch of Seismology from 1994 to 1997. He has contributed significantly to seismology research and has led fieldwork across North and South America. His leadership also extended to international collaborations with colleagues from multiple countries.
Education and Expertise
Walter Mooney earned a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Physics from Cornell University, followed by a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Geophysics from the University of Wisconsin, where he studied from 1974 to 1979. His academic background provides a strong foundation for his research and expertise in seismology and geophysics. He has also been involved in leading training programs related to these fields.
Visiting Academic Positions
Throughout his career, Walter Mooney has held several visiting academic positions. He served as a Weiss Visiting Professor of Geophysics at Rice University for three months in 2003. He was a Visiting Professor of Geophysics at the University of Kiel in Germany for one month in 1985, and at Université Pierre et Marie Curie in France in 1998. Additionally, he was a Visiting Research Associate at the California Institute of Technology from 2002 to 2003.
International Collaboration and Field Work
Walter Mooney has extensive experience leading fieldwork across North and South America and collaborating with international colleagues. His work has included partnerships in countries such as Mexico, various European nations, Russia, China, Taiwan, Japan, India, Australia, New Zealand, and East Africa. This international collaboration highlights his commitment to advancing the field of geophysics and seismology on a global scale.
Professional Memberships and Recognition
Walter Mooney has been a member of the American Geophysical Union (AGU) since 1974. He was recognized as a Fellow of the AGU in 1996, reflecting his contributions to the field of geophysics and seismology. His involvement in professional organizations underscores his commitment to advancing research and education in these disciplines.