Dr. Ricketts is a geologist with a major focus on structural geology, tectonics, low-temperature thermochronology, and fluid-fault interactions. Much of his research centers on brittle tectonics in Earth’s upper crust. His research combines field methods and observations with various analytical techniques and modeling efforts to investigate processes which control deformation. His expertise centers on the development of the Rio Grande rift of Colorado, New Mexico, and western Texas, where he routinely conducts field work with students and colleagues.