From Left: volcanologist from the University of Bristol, Professor Jenni Barclay and Professor Richard Robertson, Geologist attached to The UWI Seismic Research Center
News
April 17, 2026
The National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) officially launched a new research initiative entitled Ex-X, short for “Expecting the unexpected; understanding dangerous volcanic transitions,” on Friday, April 10, 2026 at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Global Campus, Murray’s Road.
The project brings together a large team of international scientists, observatories, modellers, and technical experts who will collaborate on research aimed at better understanding volcanic behaviour and improving preparedness. The initiative is being funded by the United Kingdom Natural Environment Research Council.
Delivering remarks at the launch, Professor Jenni Barclay, a volcanologist from the University of Bristol, outlined the overarching goals of the project. She explained that the research is designed to deepen scientific understanding of volcanic systems, particularly in relation to how eruptions begin and evolve over time.
“We want to understand through research volcanic processes better.” Barclay noted that St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), will serve as a critical research site, allowing scientists to gather real-world data that can benefit not only this country but also improve global volcanic monitoring systems. She emphasized that one of the key aims is to enhance the speed and accuracy with which early warning alerts can be issued. During her presentation, she highlighted that the research team will be closely examining volcanic rocks, as well as seismic activity, both of which provide important clues about what is happening beneath the Earth’s surface.
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