Professor & Undergraduate Coordinator
Contact Information: Email / Website
Office: 361 Williamson Hall
Education: Ph.D. Geological Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 1993
Areas of Interest / Research
- Paleomagnetism and geochronology of the Mesoproterozoic to earliest Palaeozoic
- Plate Configurations
- Paleoclimate and evolution of life on Earth
Dr. Joseph Meert is interested in the paleogeography of the Proterozoic Eon and how paleogeography influences climate, the biosphere and the tectosphere. His research team uses a toolbox aimed at learning where (paleomagnetism) a particular piece of the Earth’s crust was located and when (geochronology) it occupied that space. By obtaining coeval paleomagnetic data from multiple cratons, we can establish past paleogeographic maps. During the Proterozoic, at least two supercontinents are thought to have formed. The first is named Columbia (also Nuna) and the second younger supercontinent is called Rodinia. We are also interested in the origin, structure and evolution of the Earth’s magnetic field. Our other research focus is aimed at tools/techniques/strategies to recruit and expand opportunities in the Geosciences to under-represented groups. He insists that all his students have a field experience as part of their degree.
