Current Research Students
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Desiree` Cunningham
In Progress: MS, Geology Personal website I have always been fascinated by the field of geology, specifically by structural geology and volcanology. I earned my BS in geology from Mississippi State University where I feel in love with tectonic processes through structural geology research. I dove into my MS determined to learn as much as I could about my other obsession, volcanoes. I am currently using a variety of geochemical analytical techniques to determine timescales for magmatic process proceeding eruptions, specifically the 9.8 ka Sulphur Creek eruption at Koma Kulshan (Mt. Baker), WA. When I am not in the field or in the lab, I enjoy hiking, camping, and dancing. When it’s a cloudy day, you can catch me inside with a good book in my hand. |
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Emily Yoder
In Progress: MS, Geology Personal website I am interested in eruption timescales and the processes that drive volcanic eruptions, as well as hazard communication and GIS applications in geology. My current research focuses on estimating and comparing eruption initiation timescales for three relatively recent lava flows from Koma Kulshan (Mt. Baker). I earned my B.S. in Geology and Geography (GIS) from Central Michigan University before moving out to Washington to pursue volcanology. Outside of school, you'll find me running around as an assistant coach with the local high school cross country team, hiking, baking, or unwinding with a good book. |
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James Genero IV
In Progress: BS, Geology I am currently in my junior year at Central Washington University. I grew up with Mt. St. Helens / Loowit in my backyard and that proximity fueled my love for volcanoes. What attracts me to volcanism is the power, destruction and mysteriousness behind the eruptions. Currently, I am intrigued by the many variables and different processes that lead to different eruptive styles. As well as looking at prehistoric volcanic samples to piece together what an eruption may of looked like. |
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Yusei O'Leary
In Progress: BS, Geology I am currently a Junior at Central Washington University. I am relatively new to the field however I have always held an interest in volcanology and magmatism having grown up with the Cascade Range and the Columbia River Basalts. I also have a general interest in most things geology and seeing how we can connect them to magmatic activity. This coming spring I will be analyzing some volcanic ash from New Zealand’s North Island, performing some chemical analysis to understand the magmatic developments leading up to the eruption. In my free time I enjoy playing ultimate frisbee with my community, hiking, all sorts of games, and sports in general. I am also learning to program in Python when I can. |
Past Research Students
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Kathryn Josten
BS, Geology, 2023 Now a Staff Geologist at GeoEngineers I am performing grayscale analysis on crystals from the Swift Creek Lava Flow of Koma Kulshan to better understand the accuracy of grayscale methods (as well as eruption triggers/timings for more effective hazard assessments). Encouraged and inspired by my grandfather and his lifelong career in geology, I have had a passionate curiosity for the natural world around me for as long as I can remember. My specific interests are in igneous petrology and teaching. I am beyond excited to be satiating some of those desires here with CHIVES. When I'm not TAing for my department or doing research, you can find me hiking, biking, gardening, or camping in my Eurovan. Josten K. (2023) Using gray scale image analysis to determine the timing of the Swift Creek eruption, Koma Kulshan (Mt. Baker), WA. SOURCE Conference, Central Washington University, WA. Recipient of Outstanding Undergraduate Research Award, Department of Geological Sciences, CWU |
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Marcus Ashton
BS, Geology, 2023 Now a Stream Technician at Mid Columbia Fisheries I use high temperature furnaces in hopes to recreate melting environments for minerals and mineral compounds. My current research focuses on calibrating the high temperature furnace with a mineral compound with a known melting temperature, that being NaCl. These calibration experiments will help CHIVES students in the future with finding the melting point of other minerals and/or mineral assemblages in volcanic rock. I obtained my Associates of Science – Geology, at Centralia College where my love for the Cascadia Subduction Zone Volcanic Arc truly blossomed. I now call Kittitas Valley my home for scientific and nature exploration. |
