My current research focuses on using orbital and rover topographic and image data to investigate the stratigraphy, geology, and geomorphology of Mars. The goal is to use fundamental principles of processes on Earth to inform study of the evolution of various processes on the surface of Mars. As a collaborating member of the Mars Science Laboratory Science Team, I am particularly interested in characterizing and quantifying the stratigraphic context within Gale crater in order to understand its depositional and erosional history. I participate in daily planning of rover activities, and analyze rover data to ground-truth orbital observations. I am also interested in exploring the role of fractures as conduits for fluid flow, both in Gale crater and elsewhere on Mars, as well as constraining the emplacement mechanism(s) of long-runout landslides in Valles Marineris using high-resolution orbital imagery, spectral data, and field investigation of a terrestrial analog.

I received a Ph.D. in Geology from UCLA in 2015 and a B.S. in Geological and Environmental Sciences from Stanford University in 2010.

When I'm not probing the surface of Mars, I enjoy playing rugby, coaching basketball, writing short stories, rock climbing, and flying planes.

A link to my paper "Long-runout landslide and the long-lasting effects of early water activity on Mars" can be found here

More info on my website: http://jessicawatkins.weebly.com