The areas of research covered by faculty are broad and diverse, with strong research expertise in the general areas of geochemistry, petrology and geophysics-tectonics. These strengths allow us to focus on problems identified by the National Research Council to be socially relevant and to be fundamental to an understanding of earth processes. Dynamic faculty, along with their students, are making significant contributions to numerous areas of basic and applied research. This research is supported by excellent, state-of-the-art analytical facilities in the department and on campus. Our graduate program prepares students for a wide range of professions within the geological sciences; students have been placed in private, federal, state, and academic institutions. Prospective students are encouraged to contact any faculty member directly for additional information.