Doctor of Philosophy in Geosciences - Geochemistry

SUNY Stony Brook University

There are broad opportunities for graduate study and research in many areas of geochemistry. Major departmental strengths include isotope and trace-element geochemistry, aqueous and hydrothermal geochemistry, and theoretical and experimental geochemistry across a range of conditions, from low-temperature aqueous systems to mineral-melt systems. All programs are founded in experimental and analytical work, and there are ample opportunities to integrate experimental work with field studies and computational approaches. 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 terrains 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 marine and continental paleoenvironments and climates . High temperature geochemical research focuses on experimental and theoretical investigations of melt and glass structure.