Charlene Estrada

Charlene Estrada is an Assistant Professor of Instruction and the Online M.S. Program Director in the Department of Earth and Environmental Geosciences at Ohio University’s College of Arts and Sciences. Her work bridges scientific research in geochemistry and astrobiology with innovation in online and open-access geoscience education.

Her educational background includes a Ph.D. and M.A. in Earth and Planetary Sciences from Johns Hopkins University and a B.S. in Geosciences from the University of Arizona.

Dr. Estrada's research interests focus on the chemical interactions between organic molecules and mineral surfaces under hydrothermal conditions, with implications for the origins of life on Earth. She also investigates the preservation of ancient life and the differentiation of microfossils from pseudofossils. In recent years, she has dedicated significant effort to improving online geoscience education and developing open educational resources to enhance accessibility for students and educators.

Her expertise spans multiple sub-disciplines including aqueous geochemistry, mineralogy, astrobiology, and science education. While no publications or awards are listed in the provided text, her research trajectory reflects interdisciplinary innovation at the intersection of geosciences and pedagogy.

Dr. Estrada advises students through her role as Program Director and contributes to curriculum development and academic leadership in digital learning environments. She is actively engaged in advancing teaching methodologies and expanding access to high-quality geoscience education.

She is affiliated with the Earth and Environmental Geosciences group at Ohio University, where she leads the online M.S. program and contributes to both research and instructional innovation.