Petrology is the study of the chemical and physical characteristics of rocks and minerals and the interpretation of their conditions of formation.  

Our research in petrology is integrated into the continental geodynamics group at Mainz mostly through studies of igneous rocks and melting processes, as well as metamorphic processes in the crust of the early Earth. We investigate the composition and origin of mantle rocks and the conditions in which they melt, alkaline igneous rocks, and the formation of cratons and adjacent regions (see "projects").  

We emphasize major and trace element compositions of rocks and minerals, employing in-house electron microprobe, Laser-ICP-MS and high-pressure experimental equipment. We currently have projects running in field areas in various parts of the world, including Macedonia, Serbia, Uganda, Finland, Italy and Turkey.  

Opportunities for research students can be found through Ph.D. stipendia and by links to the Geocycles Research Centre and the Max Planck Graduate Center.