All undergraduate majors are eligible and encouraged to participate in research. Research opportunities can be a part of an independent study with a faculty member, as a part of a class assignment, or participating in a funded project. All Geology faculty members are involved in undergraduate research because we believe that it significantly enhances the educational experience. Student research enhances observational and interpretative skills, develops oral and written skills, and provides a connection between the classroom and the real world. Some recently completed or ongoing undergraduate research projects are outlined below.
Seismic Data CollectionStudents are working with the Illinois State Geological Survey collecting shallow seismic data to determine the location of buried river valleys and coal mines.
Surficial Geologic Mapping Besides collecting seismic data (see above), these students are drafting surficial geologic maps of 71/2 minute quadrangles in LaSalle County, Illinois.
Stable Isotope Analyses Andy is studying granites from the St. Francois Mountains of Missouri. He is separating quartz and other minerals from the granites and cleaning the minerals in preparation for stable isotope analyses.
Geochemical Analysis of Basalts Kate is working on the basalts from the Cathedral Cliffs, Wyoming. She will be analyzing the geochemical data from the rocks to determine which samples are altered and which are still fresh.