Doctor of Philosophy in Geosciences - Geochemistry

There are broad opportunities for graduate study and research in many areas of geochemistry. Major initiatives exist in isotope and trace-element geochemistry, aqueous and hydrothermal geochemistry, geochemistry of mineralfluid interfaces, and theoretical and experimental geochemistry of mineral-melt systems. All programs have a strong experimental foundation, and many integrate experimental work with field studies. Specific areas of research utilizing trace elements and radiogenic isotopes include evolution of Archean and Phanerozoic crust and geochronology of lithologic assemblages. These integrate with petrologic studies of sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous terranes throughout the world. Research involving the chemistry and structure of sulfide and carbonate mineral surfaces are among the programs in low-temperature aqueous geochemistry; these include emphasis on geocatalysis, crystallization and trace element incorporation mechanisms, as well as the role of sulfides in the origin of life. Field-related studies focus on fluid chemistry in active hydrothermal systems. Research on silicic melts combines theoretical and experimental approaches for characterizing speciation and crystal-melt equilibria, and also for examining nucleation and growth. Closely related experimental studies focus on phase equilibria, solid-solution models, and the development of geothermometers and geobarometers, including applications in field studies.