Christopher Koteas; Ph.D. Geosciences in progress

Interests in igneous and metamorphic petrology, structural geology, and Appalachian tectonics

My current research is focused on the construction and evolution of shallow granitic plutons in the upper crust. Active field research is centered on the Schoodic Peninsula in eastern coastal Maine . Mapping of plutonic rocks and metamorphic host units around this system is ongoing and multiple analytical techniques are being employed to better understand the thermal and chemical history of this system. Avenues currently being explored include: qualitative textural studies using traditional petrographic techniques as well as mapping with a Cameca SX50 electron microprobe, quantitative approaches include whole rock major and trace element geochemistry via XRF and ICP-MS, TIMS whole rock isotope studies, micro-drilled plagioclase single crystal isotope geochemistry, hornblende barometry, single crystal microgeochemical analyses of major phases, and FTIR studies of plagioclase, quartz, and hornblende devitrified and non-devitrified melt inclusions.

Morrill Sciences Center (Room 12)
Department of Geosciences, 611 N. Pleasant St.
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Amherst, MA 01003

Department Phone: (413) 545-2286 MINERALOGY (311) Fall 2008
Fax: (413) 545-1200

Office Phone: (413) 545-0175
e-mail: ckoteas@geo.umass.edu

Maine Geological Survey

Acadia Partners/ SERC

Sally the Dog soaking in mid-day summer sun.	Evidence of mechanical mingling from exposure along the eastern margin of the Schoodic Peninsula, Maine.	Evidence of chemical mingling within the Gouldsboro pluton, eastern coastal Maine .	Our field vessel beached on some nice low water exposures of mafic and felsic magma interaction.
Eldorado Mountains, southern Nevada.			Field work with Heather Bleick, left, and Thomas Steinwinder, top, in southern Nevada.