Project Description: |
I am looking for enthusiastic students who would be interested in combining fieldwork and science with traveling and outdoor activities.
My project will include a 3 week-stay in Argentina, conducting fieldwork, and 4 weeks working at Hope College. At Hope we will process and interpret our field data, and will analyze thin sections of rocks under the microscope. We will present our results at a professional meeting, very likely in the Fall of 2009.
We will be studying the geologic history preserved in the oldest rocks in Argentina. Our results will be integrated in a tectonic model that will be able to explain the tectonic evolution of NW Argentina during the Cambrian period (543 to 490 Million Years Ago).
Applicant/s will be studying and working in the following areas:
*Mapping, and collection and interpretation of structural data (this includes measuring the orientation of geologic structures)
* Mineralogy of metasedimentary rocks (X-Ray diffraction analysis will give us the clay composition of slates)
* Strain analysis (measurement of rock deformation in meta-sandstones and conglomerates, and shear zones).
Since the fieldwork will involve spending some time in semi-isolated areas, the student has to be able to live for a few days without internet connection. A student willing to hike for a few hours (some days), and to endure hot/cold weather conditions would be ideal.
Spanish language skills are a bonus, although not strictly necessary. However we value attitude. The student must be willing to mix/learn about the argentinian culture. This can be an excellent opportunity to learn/practice another language and to learn about other lifestyles.
If you like beautiful landscapes, good food, friendly people, science, and rocks, this is your project.
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