Russell Harmon

Russell Harmon is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Marine, Earth, and Atmospheric Sciences at NC State University. He holds a BA in Geology from the University of Texas (1969), MS in Geochemistry from Pennsylvania State University (1972), and PhD in Geology from McMaster University (1976). Prior to his current role, he served as Director of the International Research Office at the US Army Engineer Research and Development Center (2011–2017) and Program Manager for Terrestrial Sciences at the Army Research Office (1993–2011). His research focuses on low-temperature geochemistry, stable isotope geochemistry, Pleistocene paleoclimatology, and laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), with notable contributions to geochemical fingerprinting and mineral exploration techniques.

Dr. Harmon has held faculty positions at Michigan State University and Southern Methodist University, and conducted research at institutions including NASA’s Lunar Receiving Laboratory and the Scottish Universities Research and Reactor Center. He is a Fellow of the Geological Society of America, National Speleological Society, and International Association of Geochemistry, and has served as Past Chair of the GSA Division of Mineralogy, Geochemistry, Petrology, & Volcanology, and Past-President of the International Association of Geochemistry.

His recent work emphasizes LIBS applications in field geochemistry, including mineral exploration (e.g., lithium-rich pegmatites in North Carolina) and environmental analysis. He has also contributed to studies of climatic controls on chemical weathering in tropical watersheds and Antarctic stream chemistry. His research bridges fundamental geochemical principles with applied technologies for resource exploration and environmental monitoring.

Scientific awards include recognition for leadership in geochemical societies and contributions to isotope geochemistry. Dr. Harmon’s publications span over 50 years, reflecting his expertise in both traditional and cutting-edge analytical techniques. His work continues to advance methodologies for rapid, field-based geochemical analysis and their integration into Earth science research.