C.J. Northrup

C.J. Northrup is a Professor and Chair of the Department of Geosciences at Boise State University. He holds a Ph.D. from MIT (1996), an M.S. from the University of Arizona (1991), and a B.S. from the University of New Mexico (1989). His research focuses on Structural Geology and Tectonics, emphasizing field-oriented studies in Idaho and the northwestern U.S., particularly the kinematic evolution of mountain belts, accretionary tectonics, and Mesozoic terrane assembly.

• Education:
• Ph.D., Geology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1996
• M.S., Geosciences, University of Arizona, 1991
• B.S., Geology, University of New Mexico, 1989

Research Interests: Northrup’s work integrates structural analysis, metamorphic petrology, and geochronology to reconstruct tectonic histories. Key areas include collisional mountain belts (e.g., Scandinavian Caledonides), accreted terranes in the Pacific Northwest, and links between Mesozoic crustal architecture and modern tectonics. Fieldwork and quantitative structural techniques are central to his approach.

Teaching: Courses include Introductory Structural Geology, Advanced Structural Geology, Plate Tectonics, and Tectonics Seminar. Emphasis is placed on field skills, 3D visualization, and application of analytical tools to geologic data.

Student Opportunities: Offers research and field-based projects for undergraduates, M.S., and Ph.D. students in structural geology and tectonics. The region’s geologic diversity provides abundant field-based research opportunities.

Contact: Office ERB 3165 | Email: cjnorth@boisestate.edu