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Low Temperature Geochemistry and Hydrogeology
Faculty: M. Appold, M. Schulte, K. Shelton, M. Underwood, C. Wicks
 

The geologic community has experienced a dramatic shift in focus over the past several years. In part driven by heightened societal concern regarding a changing global environment, the emphasis has moved toward surficial process. To this end, our department has made a long-term commitment to studies in low-temperature geochemistry and hydrogeology.  Active research projects are both field- and laboratory-based and cover a range of applied and theoretical topics.

One area of timely research is exploring thermal evolution and fluid-rock interactions in ancient and in modern accretionary prisms and foreland thrust belts. These interdisciplinary studies incorporate diverse analytical techniques ranging from stable isotopic evaluations of fluid migration to assessments of paleotemperatures using vitrinite reflectance and illite crystallinity. Field areas include coastal California, Costa Rica, Alaska and Japan.

Getting the most out of a box core

A second area of research is directed toward understanding the hydrogeologic processes and coupled geochemical systems within karstic aquifers.  This research program is also driven by a need to understand the habitat of animals that reside in the karstic aquifers and cave systems.  Recent work has focused on the movement of sediment and the transport of contaminants in the groundwater through the karstic basins. The ubiquitous karst and caves in Missouri make it an ideal location to study karst-related phenomena.

Graduate studies at MU provide a unique opportunity to explore diverse, interdisciplinary topics in low-temperature geochemistry and hydrogeology. The geochemical group, in combination with strong groups in paleo-climatology and sedimentology, constitute an outstanding program in surficial geology.

Last Modified: winter 2008