Michelle Villalta, a geologist graduated from the Faculty of Geosciences Engineering (FICT) at ESPOL, is conducting research on seismic precursors of volcanic activity at the Láscar Volcano, a stratovolcano located about 5,000 meters above sea level near San Pedro de Atacama and the town of Talabre in Chile.
This volcano is the subject of her research as part of her master’s degree in Geology at the Universidad Católica del Norte in Antofagasta, Chile. She also plays a key role as a thesis researcher at the Millennium Institute for Volcanic Risk Research – Ckelar Volcanes, thanks to a scholarship awarded by the institution, where her dedication and passion for geological research are reflected in every aspect of her work.
The focus of the research is to better understand Láscar Volcano, the most active volcano in northern Chile. Through multiparametric data, the project aims to establish an activity threshold that will provide deeper insight into its ‘personality’ and the triggers behind its unusual volcanic behavior.
“This set of data will provide me with the information needed to understand the volcano’s behavior and delineate its activity periods,” explains volcanologist Michelle Villalta.
Her outstanding work has already been recognized in Chile and mentioned in two major newspapers in the city of Antofagasta, in northern Chile: La Estrella and El Mercurio.
Her commitment to research is not only admirable but also drives a culture of innovation. As a member of our Alumni community, we trust that she will serve as an inspiration for those who aspire to contribute to scientific advancement, especially in the field of Geology.
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