Devin Castendyk

Devin Castendyk is a faculty member at the Earth Sciences Department of the State University of New York at Oneonta, where he has held a tenure-track position since 2005. He teaches a range of undergraduate courses, including introductory geology, hydrogeology, and geochemistry, and advises approximately 25 undergraduate students and supervises 2 graduate students. His research focuses on the geochemical evolution of water at mine sites, including abandoned and active gold mines in Utah and New Zealand.

Castendyk emphasizes student-centered learning and has led initiatives to enhance classroom engagement through interactive activities and online tools. He received a U.S. Fulbright Grant for his work in New Zealand, which formed the basis of his PhD thesis in Environmental Science. He actively participates in academic workshops, such as the 2011 Preparing for an Academic Career in the Geosciences Workshop, and advocates for undergraduate research experiences as a critical component of geoscience education.

His career path reflects a commitment to teaching at small liberal arts institutions, shaped by his own undergraduate experience at Hartwick College. He balances teaching, research, and service, with a focus on empowering students to lead research projects and present at professional conferences like the Geological Society of America meetings.