Climate Change
We are interested in understanding the geochemistry of sedimentary rocks and how their geochemistry can be used to reconstruct paleo-environments and oceanic conditions. We use a combination of stable isotope (C, N, and S), sulfur, major, trace, and rare earth element geochemistry, and statistical modeling, to understand these environments, This process can be tedious and requires that we use a multiproxy approach to detangle the original geochemical signatures attributable to conditions existing at the time of deposition (e.g., oxygenation, ocean circulation, productivity, etc.) from those associated with external forcing such as deglaciation and isostatic rebound, ocean spreading, and volcanism. This work has necessarily expanded to include the mechanics and tempo of mass extinction events, and working as a member of a large international team comprised of paleontologists, stratigraphers, and sedimentologists.
MASS EXTINCTIONS
We are particularly keen in understand the Permian-Triassic Extinction, this extinction is considered to be most the largest and most consequential in Earth's history with approximately 95% of all species going extinct. We utilize geochemical techniques along with sedimentology and paleontology to understand what mechanisms and forces were responsible for triggering the paleo-environment to undergo drastic change, that are primarily associated with massive catastrophic changes. We think it is very important to comprehend the tempo and severity of the Permian-Triassic Extinction to better understand the potential impacts of today's climate change driven by anthropogenic events.
ORGANIC DEPOSITION (Black Shale Formation)
One of the biggest factors in global climate change is the deposition of organic (global cooling) or oxidation of organic rich materials (global warming). In Earth's past black shale deposition events have drastically change our climate in the past. We aim to understand that what forces are responsible for these events. Thus, we rely on black shale geochemistry for informing our understanding of past climates in particular during the Middle Devonian and Cretaceous periods Specifically, we use stable isotope (C, N, and S) and redox-sensitive trace element geochemistry to understand the deposition and lithification of anoxic muds, and how conditions favorable for their deposition are influenced by climate forcing as well as local environmental impacts.
MASS EXTINCTIONS
We are particularly keen in understand the Permian-Triassic Extinction, this extinction is considered to be most the largest and most consequential in Earth's history with approximately 95% of all species going extinct. We utilize geochemical techniques along with sedimentology and paleontology to understand what mechanisms and forces were responsible for triggering the paleo-environment to undergo drastic change, that are primarily associated with massive catastrophic changes. We think it is very important to comprehend the tempo and severity of the Permian-Triassic Extinction to better understand the potential impacts of today's climate change driven by anthropogenic events.
ORGANIC DEPOSITION (Black Shale Formation)
One of the biggest factors in global climate change is the deposition of organic (global cooling) or oxidation of organic rich materials (global warming). In Earth's past black shale deposition events have drastically change our climate in the past. We aim to understand that what forces are responsible for these events. Thus, we rely on black shale geochemistry for informing our understanding of past climates in particular during the Middle Devonian and Cretaceous periods Specifically, we use stable isotope (C, N, and S) and redox-sensitive trace element geochemistry to understand the deposition and lithification of anoxic muds, and how conditions favorable for their deposition are influenced by climate forcing as well as local environmental impacts.
Environmental Impact
The weathering of organic rich sediments can lead to environmental degradation. It has been noted that weathering of organic rich sediments such as coal leads to acid mine drainage, which can have a large consequence on the surrounding area. We are interested in understanding how modern weathering impacts the geochemistry of black shales, and how their weathering can lead to changes in geochemical cycles within local watersheds, the global ocean, and their impact on the environment and human health.
Water Quality
One of the most important aspects to quality of life and pristine environments is water quality. Anthropogenic influences primarily in the form of land cover and land use has severely altered the chemistry and quality of water in the environment. We work with Dr. Joseph Ortiz and his research group and the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District to assess the impacts of land cover and land usage on inland lakes in the Muskingum River Watershed by using a mixture of novel techniques (e.g. remote sensing) and water chemistry.
Archaeology |
One of the exciting areas of research is the blend of earth science and anthropology to .research pre-historic and ancient civilizations. We work with Drs, Eren Metin and Michelle Bebber to understand the source of artifacts (pottery), reconstruct trade routes and economies of pre-historic civilizations in the Midwestern USA through geochemical and mineralogical techniques. Characterizing the geochemical signature of artifacts created from geological material allows us to identify the artifacts original geochemical source and analyze how far these artifacts traveled to understand cultural significance.