Northern Arizona University

Lab Director, Darrell Kaufman

I study geologic records of environmental changes, particularly those related to climate, that have shaped the Earth’s surface during the recent past and that operate on millennial time scales. w: http://jan.ucc.nau.edu/~dsk5/

Lab Manager, Caleb Schiff

I received my Master's of Science from the NAU Geology department in 2007.  My main research focus is using the oxygen isotope composition of diatoms as a proxy for climate.  I have a strong background in lake coring, tephra analyses, and GIS as well.  I've been working with NAU since 2005.  If not working in the lab or writing, you can usually find me on the numerous trails surrounding Flagstaff, on my bike or running shoes.  w: http://oak.ucc.nau.edu/cjs235/Home.html

Senior Research Specialist, Jordon Bright

I specialize in identifying lacustrine ostracodes and interpreting their depositional environments. My Master's thesis research in Quaternary Sciences at Northern Arizona University focused on using oxygen isotopes in ostracode shells and endogenic carbonates to reconstruct hydrological change at Bear Lake, Utah/Idaho.  I also manage the Amino Acid Geochronology Lab at NAU.

Becca Pruit

I graduated with a Master’s degree in Geological Sciences from East Carolina University in 2008. My research focused on reconstructing paleoenvironmental change using foraminiferal assemblages and geochemical techniques. Currently, I prepare diatoms and foraminifera for oxygen isotope analysis.

Tess McDaniels

I am a senior geology undergraduate at NAU. I started working in the BSi analysis lab in late spring of 2009, and I hope to continue my education as a graduate in the field of climate change studies. When I can find some extra time, I spend it rafting or backpacking.

Mary Carson

I am a junior in the Geology program at NAU. I hope to use biogenic silica analysis to reconstruct summer temperature in south central Alaska. After recieving my undergraduate I plan to continue my education in paleoclimate studies and geomorphology. I love Yellowstone National Park, music and crocheting.

Sean Bothman

I am a senior geology student at Northern Arizona University and I examine sediment samples. I mostly analyze lake sediments for their biogenic silica concentration, organic matter content, and grain size distributions, all of which can give us an idea of climate regimes that existed when the sediments were deposited. When I graduate with my geology degree and research experience in sediment analysis, I hope to begin a fruitful career as a train bandit. I like spending time outdoors, making pottery, and playing music.