REU: Fluids in the Earth from Surface to Core

University Of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Minneapolis MN

Investigators

Abstract

Kohlstedt 9987969 The REU Site involves a field, analytical, experimental, and theoretical study of geological fluids. Research will range from surface and near-surface fluid systems to the mantle to the core. Fourteen undergraduate students will be recruited nationally each year. The students will investigate topics with the common theme of fluids in the Earth. The interns will be involved in various research activities, including the impacts of human activities on groundwater quality primarily in karst and fractured rock aquifers, the role of fluids in crustal processes through basin-scale hydrogeologic modeling, limnogeology research on lakes to understand regional environmental dynamics, evaluation of the chemical and mechanical effects of fluids in metamorphic and igneous systems, the effect of melt on rheology of mantle rocks, and numerical hands-on experience with mantle convection and core dynamics using scientific visualization. In addition, they will be exposed to disciplines outside their summer research by participating in field trips to mid-western sites (caves, glacial lake/river features, mid-continent rift lavas), by touring a wide range of laboratory facilities (rock magnetism, isotope geochemistry, rock mechanics, electron microscopy) at the University of Minnesota and vicinity, and by taking part in university summer internship programs in a wide range of fields (chemistry, biology, physics, interfacial engineering, environmental sciences).