After earning her Ph.D. in geology from Brown University, Professor McCanta conducted research at NASA’s Lunar and Planetary Institute. In addition to volcanology, and geochemistry, Professor McCanta’s current study includes planetary geology. In order to evaluate rocks from planets throughout the solar system, she employs experimental techniques to simulate the high temperature and pressure under which these rocks may have formed. Professor McCanta’s terrestrial explorations include trips to Central and South America as well as Europe.