Current & Past Events
Fall 2023 Seminar Schedule
Seminar is held Thursdays from 4:00pm-4:50pm in the Merion Science Center room 113. All are welcome.
A panel of alumni speak to current students about their career paths in industry, education, and graduate school.
Students work on their resumes and interview skills.
Schedule
| Date | Speaker | Topic | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8/31/2023 |
Dr. Marc Gagne |
Earth and Space Sciences Department Faculty Introduction |
This will serve as an overview of how this year's seminar will differ from previous years in terms of its operation. |
| 9/07/2023 |
Dr.Howell Bosbyshell |
Opportunties and Advising |
This seminar aims to discuss the department's scholarship opportunties, field trips, and various other offerings. Additonally it will delve into the benefits of advising and how it can positively impact your future. |
| 9/14/2023 |
Dr.Marc Gagne |
|
The primary objective of this seminar is to delve into and explore the latest research conducted by Dr. Marc Gagne, which centers around the fascinating subject of Magnetic Massive Stars. Throughout the seminar, we will have the opportunity to engage in in-depth discussions and gain insights into Dr. Gagne's work in this field, shedding light on the intriguing phenomena associated with these celestial giants. |
| 9/21/2023 |
Dr.Joby Hilliker |
Research and Study Opportunities | The primary objective of this seminar is to provide a exploration of avenues that can positively impact your future academic and professional pursuits. Specifically, we will delve into the enriching experiences offered by field camps, internships, and research opportunities, shedding light on how they can contribute to your personal and career development. By delving into these subjects in detail, we aim to equip you with valuable insights and knowledge to make informed decisions about your future educational and professional path. |
| 9/28/2023 |
Dr.Elliott Arnold |
Reconstructing Drought in Peru during the Medieval Climate Anomaly: Implications for Societies Past and Present | During this seminar, our central topic of discussion will center on the research conducted by Elliott Arnold. Specifically, we'll delve into the intriguing subject of "Reconstructing Drought in Peru during the Medieval Climate Anomaly: Implications for Societies Past and Present." This research holds significance not only for historical insights but also for its implications in contemporary contexts. |
| 10/05/2023 |
Dr.Daria Nikitina Heather Wholey |
Coastal Research: Past,Prsent, and Future |
|
| 10/12/2023 |
Students |
ESS Student Research and Intership Prsentations, Deparment Photo |
|
| 10/19/2023 |
Sarah Gibson |
|
In this upcoming session, we are delighted to have Sarah Gibson as the focus of our discussion. Sarah's research, titled "Beyond Flatland: A Star of Many Dimensions," promises to take us on an intriguing journey into the complexities of celestial bodies. Through her work, we will explore the multifaceted nature of stars, transcending the conventional understanding of these luminous entities. Prepare to delve into a exploration of the cosmos and its intricate dimensions as we delve into Sarah Gibson's research. |
| 10/26/2023 |
Elizabeth Turner |
The oldest fossil evidence of animals known to date |
During our session, we will be highlighting Elizabeth Turner's research, which delves into a subject of profound significance. Her work centers on "The oldest fossil evidence of animals known to date," providing invaluable insights into the early history of life on our planet. Be prepared for a captivating discussion that delves into the origins of ancient lifeforms and the fascinating discoveries that shed light on Earth's distant past. |
| 11/02/2023 |
Lauren Casey |
|
In our upcoming session, we will explore the research conducted by Lauren Casey, focusing on the topic of "Regional Climate Variations." Lauren's work will provide valuable insights into the ever-changing climate patterns within distinct geographical areas, shedding light on the environmental shifts that affect local communities. Get ready for an engaging discussion on the dynamic nature of climate and its impacts on specific regions.
|
| 11/9/2023 |
Claire Zurkowski |
Mysteries beyond our solar system: characterizing the mineralogical building blocks of mylti Earth mass exoplanets |
|
| 11/16/2023 |
PCPG Panel Discussion |
Pennsylvania Council of Professional Geologists |
|
| 11/23/2023 |
Thanksgiving Break |
None | In this week's seminar, we'd like to inform you that due to the Thanksgiving break, there will be no class or session scheduled. We hope you enjoy your break and look forward to reconvening in our next session. |
| 11/30/2023 |
Melanie Vile |
The Impact of Oil Sands Mining on Peatland Ecosystems in Alberta Canada |
In our upcoming session, we are privileged to explore Melanie Vile's thought-provoking research. Melanie will lead us on an journey into the subject of "The Impact of Oil Sands Mining on Peatland Ecosystems in Alberta, Canada." Her work promises to unravel the intricate relationship between oil sands mining and the delicate peatland ecosystems, shedding light on the environmental consequences of this industry in a specific region. Prepare for a stimulating discussion that delves into the intricate dynamics of natural environments and human activities. |
| 12/7/2023 |
WCU Alumni Panel/ Open House |
WCU Alumni Q & A |
Our final session of the seminar will be structured differently from previous weeks. It will take the form of a WCU Alumni Panel/Open House event. This unique session will provide an opportunity to hear from and engage with esteemed WCU alumni, offering valuable insights and perspectives on various topics related to our seminar's themes. It promises to be an enriching and informative experience as we conclude our seminar series. |
Course Field Trips and Pics
Special Courses
International Field Trips (ESS 348/548)
The Department offers field courses to study and explore geology in regions outside the United States. The field study is conducted under the supervision of West Chester faculty and graduate students, during which students learn to apply geology field methods to study geomorphology and morphotectonics. Here is a summary International trips in the past:
2017 - Jamaica
2015 - Costa Rica
2013 - Russia
In conjunction with Moscow State University, several students studied the most preserved geologic regions of all Europe; the Khibiny Mountains and Lovozero Tundra, the Baltic Shield.
2011 - Costa Rica
2009 - Peru
This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for our students! For more information, please contact
Dr. Daria Nikitina
Geology of the National Parks (ESS 394/594 and 395/595)
Every two years in late summer, the Department offers a course studying field geology in the Western U.S., alternating between the NW Parks (in Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana) and SW Parks (in Arizona and New Mexico). In this multi-week experience, students conduct geologic mapping exercises and investigating stratigraphy, tectonic history, structural geology, igneous petrology, geomorphology, hydrogeology, soils, natural hazards, and economic resources of the national parks.
For more information, please contact
Dr. Martin HelmkePhoto Gallery
Student Research
2014 Northeastern Section Conference of GSA
WCU Geology majors presented their research posters at the 2014 Northeastern Section Conference of the Geological Society of America. A total of seven WCU students presented research posters that week - a record for the Department, and one of the larger University groups at the meeting.
Field Trips
Petrology Field Trips
Sedimentology & Stratigraphy Field Trips
Structural Geology Field Trips
Summer Southwestern Parks Field Trip
Service Learning Projects
Earth Day Fair - 2014
To benefit local land preservation and ecosystem restoration programs.
Annual Garlic Mustard Pull
Students harvesting this non-native plant in the Gordon Natural Area.
Annual Clean-Up of Goose Creek in West Chester
Geoscience students participate in the Chester Ridley Crum Watershed Association's annual clean-up of Goose Creek.
Tree Planting Along the Brandywine
Students planting trees along the Brandywine Creek to benefit local land preservation and ecosystem restoration programs.
Drone Research
MS Geoscience graduate students Juliana Hartlove and Mariah Bowie conduct drone research using a new first-person view (FPV) camera system. Drones are just one of the many ways WCU ESS students apply cutting-edge tools to solve geologic problems.
Native Plant Gardening
Students gardening native plants at Hildacy Preserve, Natural Lands Trust
Brandywine Polar Plunge 2014
Students took the plunge for this fundraising event to keep the Brandywine and Red
Clay Watersheds
clean and healthy, and to support environmental education at the Myrick Center.
