Earth Science

Research

Geology Department faculty encourage students to start the research experience as early as possible. Many sophomore and junior students have already had research experience and published their work in regional or national professional meetings. Examples of recent published student research include:

• A survey of major ion concentrations in surface water across a sequentially reclaimed surface mine, The Wilds, Southeastern Ohio: North-Central GSA, St. Louis, MO.
• Isopach created a structural contour mapping of the lower Mississippian Berea Sandstone using GIS, Guernsey County, Ohio: North-Central GSA, St. Louis, MO.

Professional Activities
Muskingum University faculty and students participate in professional activities and attend conferences throughout the region.

• Elizabeth M. Bullard ('12) and Assistant Professor of Geology Dr. David Rodland were invited to present their research findings at the annual meeting of the Geological Society of America (GSA), in Portland, Oregon. They collaborated on Shell Size and Sclerobiont Colonization: Area Effects on Encrustation and Boring Frequency, Abundance, Diversity and Recruitment in Hard-Substrate Communities over the summer of 2009, and the paper was recently accepted for publication.

Honoraries
Sigma Gamma Epsilon was founded on March 30, 1915, at The University of Kansas, to recognize scholarship and professionalism in the Earth Sciences. Muskingum offers students the opportunity to participate in one of nearly 150 chapters throughout the United States.

Employment
A couple of student assistants are needed every semester, and, if qualified, students have the opportunity to serve as research assistants to faculty.

Facilities
The Geology Department of Muskingum University is housed on the second floor of the Boyd Science Building. The department has (and has access to) excellent teaching and research facilities.

After Graduation
Where Geology Majors from Muskingum are Employed:

• State Geological Survey
• EPA
• National or state parks
• Petroleum companies
• Private consulting company
• Coal industry
• Natural history museums
• Universities, as faculty
• Secondary schools, teaching

Recent Geology graduates have enrolled in the following Graduate Schools:

• Ohio State University
• University of Akron
• Washington (MO) University
• University of Pittsburgh
• University of Wisconsin
• University of Arizona