Research at PMS group
Our main research interests lie in understanding fundamental questions related to the origin and evolution of Earth, including but not limited to 1). chemical weathering and its influence on continental crust evolution; 2). evolution of Earth’s surface environments and its connection to the deep Earth; 3). geochemistry of fluid-rock interactions. Our research goals are to continue to address these major scientific questions using a multidisciplinary approach that includes analytical geochemistry, modeling, and fieldwork. Graduate projects will be defined according to student interests and possible topics include but not limited to: understand chemical weathering of the Galapagos/Hawaiian Islands, trace Cenozoic weathering evolution and its association with tectonic uplifts, paleoenvironmental changes in critical transitions, such as the Ocean Anoxic Events, Permian-Triassic mass extinction, end of Ordovician mass extinction, the Cambrian life exposition, the “Boring Billion” etc.
What Students Do
Students are a critical part of all our research! My students work in the laboratory to develop analytical methods, build geochemical experiments, and conduct novel elemental and isotopic analyses. Students also participate in and lead field expeditions to collect various type of samples, such as rock, soils, plants, surface and ground waters. PhD students may start working on existing projects and free to explore into others once they have successfully completed their first one(s). Our students are actively engaged within the Geological Sciences Department at UNC, including participating in group meetings and professional conferences, and interact with and support each other.
Graduate program at UNC
The Department of Geological Sciences at UNC provides full support for graduate students including a 12-month stipend, full tuition support, and health insurance. In addition, there are opportunities for admission fellowships, funded graduate field trips, departmental research funds, and yearly conference travel support! The small departmental size at UNC cultivates a collegial and supportive environment. Graduates go on to successful careers in academia, governmental research, or private industries. To apply, please see: http://gradschool.unc.edu/admissions/instructions.html.
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