Mentor(s)

Eben Hodgkin & Frank Donnelly, Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences, Brown University

Project Location

Brown University

Project Description

This project will involve field work in the form of mapping, making structural measurements, measuring stratigraphic sections, and sampling glacial sediments on Block Island (Rhode Island, USA). The glacial deposits that make up Block Island are continuous with terminal moraine deposits that extend from Long Island (NY) to Martha’s Vineyard (MA) and can be used to define the southern extent of the Laurentide ice sheet. The field work will be conducted in order to test correlations with nearby glacial deposits, determine the chronology of glacial advance and retreat in the region, and refine the timing and nature of subsequent sea-level rise.

Follow-up work will be conducted in the lab at Brown University to prepare samples for analysis. Synthesis of field observations will also involve working with GIS, plotting measured sections, and reconstructing post-glacial history. There are single day and multi-day GIS training sessions available, as well individualized instruction from GIS technician and collaborator, Frank Donnelly.

An objective of the internship will be to develop educational content in the form of a brochure on the glacial geology of Block Island. Increased awareness of the geology of Block Island can contribute to the island’s natural history, tourism, and bring awareness to important issues such as sea-level rise and sea-cliff erosion.

To achieve these objectives, we will conduct field trips on a regular basis (approximately weekly) to Block Island. The remaining work will be carried out at Brown University campus, or potentially at Nature Lab.

This project involves field and lab work

Required/Preferred skills

Previous geological experience is preferred, particularly measuring stratigraphic sections, describing sediments/sedimentary rocks, and mapping bedrock geology.

Experience using GIS programs and Adobe Illustrator are recommended. The ability to navigate slippery and rough terrain is a plus. A positive attitude and strong interest in making field-based observations would be a plus. An interest or ability to develop geological sketches or drawings is also desired.

Will the project require transportation to field sites? No

Is this project open to Surf Flex? Yes

In which core facilities might student conduct research? RISD Nature Lab and Brown’s Center for Computation & Visualization

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