Lecture on “The Discovery of Plate Tectonics: Unexpected Sources of Key Data and the Hard Road to its Eventual Acceptance” by Prof. Ray Weldon (University of Oregon)

On April 3^rd, 2024, Professor Ray Weldon from the University of Oregon, USA, delivered a captivating lecture titled The Discovery of Plate Tectonics: Unexpected Sources of Key Data and the Hard Road to its Eventual Acceptance to the freshman cohort of the Qiu Shi Class within the Geology Major at Chu Ko-Chen Honors College.

Professor Weldon's presentation engaged students by delving into intriguing narratives surrounding the emergence of plate tectonics theory, drawing upon his personal encounters during undergraduate studies in the early 1970s. He provided a comprehensive exploration of the challenges inherent in garnering recognition for scientific theories, offering valuable insights for students embarking on their scientific journeys. The lecture sparked lively discussions, fostering an atmosphere of enthusiastic inquiry among both faculty and students.

Renowned as a leading figure in active tectonics and earthquake geology, Professor Ray Weldon is a fellow of the Geological Society of America, with a remarkable publication record comprising over 100 scholarly papers in esteemed journals including Science, Earth and Planetary Science Letters, and the Journal of Geophysical Research. Beyond his contributions to scientific research, Professor Weldon is deeply committed to educational endeavors, exemplified by his involvement in teaching and mentoring.

Professor Weldon's academic visit to the School of Earth Sciences, Zhejiang University, at the invitation of Professor Xuhua SHI, underscores his dedication to fostering collaborative partnerships. Over the course of a decade-long collaboration, Professor Weldon and his Chinese counterparts, including Professors Xuhua SHI and Zhou LIN from Zhejiang University, have yielded advancements in earthquake geology research, particularly in the dynamic regions encompassing the southeastern and northwestern Tibetan Plateau and Southeast Asia.