Adriana Potra

Adriana Potra is an Associate Professor in the Department of Geosciences at the University of Arkansas, affiliated with the College of Arts & Sciences. Her research focuses on economic geology and isotope geochemistry, particularly Mississippi Valley-Type (MVT) ore deposits.

• Specializes in radiogenic isotope geochemistry to trace metal sources in ore systems.
• Investigates environmental impacts of mining, including legacy lead contamination.
• Teaches courses in mineralogy, petrology, geochemistry, and field studies.

Research Trends: Her recent publications emphasize lead isotopes in black shales, MVT ore genesis, and diagenetic processes. Key subfields include ore metal provenance, tectonic frameworks, and biogeochemical applications in archaeology.

Awards:

• Faculty of the Year, Sigma Gamma Epsilon (2019, 2017)
• Award for Outstanding Mentor (2016)

Students: She has mentored over 20 graduate and undergraduate students, including Sydney McKim, Austin Moyers, and Christophe Simbo, on projects involving geochemical analysis and ore deposit studies.