Sandeep Sharma

My current research project is focused on regional sequence stratigraphy and facies architecture analysis of the Gallup Sandstone. The stratigraphic framework currently available for the Gallup Sandstone focusses pre-dominantly on lithofacies without any sequence stratigraphic implications. I plan to use isochronous Bentonite beds as datum to provide control on age to aid high-resolution regional correlation. The vertical facies stacking trends obtained from meticulous study of outcrops will be linked with shoreline trajectory analysis to identify and map the depositional systems and systems tracts. These steps will help in producing a stratigraphic framework of the Gallup Sandstone in true sequence stratigraphic sense. Carrying out facies and architecture element analysis to distinguish tributive, trunk and distributive systems and establishing the relative influence of wave, river and tidal processes on the shallow marine deposits of the Gallup Sandstone will also be another major focus of the research. The outcome of the facies analysis will be further used in paleo-hydraulic estimates of the rivers and source-to-sink mass balance studies and tracking of dynamic boundaries like bayline and backwater.