Broadly speaking, I am interested in the paleogeography of the Proterozoic Eon and how paleogeography influences climate, the biosphere and the tectosphere. My research team uses a toolbox aimed at learning where (paleomagnetism) a particular piece of the Earth's crust was located and when (geochronology) it occupied that space. By obtaining coeval paleomagnetic data from multiple cratons, we can establish past paleogeographic maps. During the Proterozoic, at least two supercontinents are thought to have formed. The first is named Columbia (also Nuna) and the second younger supercontinent is called Rodinia. We are also interested in the origin, structure and evolution of the Earth's magnetic field. Our other research focus is aimed at tools/techniques/strategies to recruit and expand opportunities in the Geosciences to under-represented groups. I insist that all my students have a field experience as part of their degree.
Current Students
Samuel Kwafo- Ph.D. Student expected 2026, Vindhyan Basin and Bundelkhand dykes.
JJ Ruse- B.S. Student (expected 2025), Statistical Analysis of Paleomagnetic poles.
Graduates
Dr. Anthony Pivarunas (Ph.D. 2019)- Research Scientist USGS Menlo Park, CA.
Dr. Scott Miller (Ph.D., 2021)- Lecturer University of Florida.
Karastin Katusin (M.S. 2018)- Instructor Lone Star Community College, TX.
Kelli Roderus (B.S. 2019): Status Unknown.
Austin Smith (B.S. 2017): Paleomagnetism of the Newer dolerite dyke swarms, India (now employed Environmental Resource Management).
Erin Conlon (BS 2016): Paleomagnetism and Geochronology of the Marwar Basin, NW India (now employed at Exxon Mobil).
Dr. Sadie Belica (M.S. 2012): Paleomagnetism and Geochronology of Mafic dykes Dharwar Craton ( Ph.D. Western Australia).
Candler Turner (M.S. 2012): Geochronology of the Marwar Supergroup and Upper Vindhyan Supergroup (Employed Apache Oil).
Matt Celestino (B.S. 2012): Geochronology of Mafic Dykes (M.S. University of Buffalo, now employed Washington, DC).
Dr. Bud Davis (B.S. 2012)-Paleomagnetism of the Marwar Supergroup India; (Ph.D. UT Austin, now employed Drummond Carpenter, Orlando, FL).
Dr. Vimal Pradhan (Ph.D. 2011)- Paleomagnetism and Geochronology of Indian Dykes. (Geologist Sunburst Consulting).
Nikki Cundiff (B.S. Student 2010)- Paleomagnetism and Geochronology of Malani Dykes (Owner Slipface Sandboards).
Dr. Laura Gregory (MS 2009)- Malani dykes and Majhgawan Kimberlite (Ph.D. Oxford, 2012, UAF / NERC Independent Research Fellow ).
Dr. Shawn Malone (MS 2008)- Paleomagnetism of the Bhander-Rewa Groups India. (Ph.D. Iowa, 2013; Associate Professor UW Green Bay).
Jessica Yff (BS 2007)- Dzabkhan Volcanic rocks (completed M.Sc. at University of Northern Arizona).
