Charles M. Onasch

Dr. Charles M. Onasch serves as Professor and Director of the School of Earth, Environment and Society at Bowling Green State University (BGSU), a position he has held since 2007. He joined BGSU in 1983 as Assistant Professor of Geology, advancing to Associate Professor (1986-92) and Professor (1992-present), after serving as Assistant Professor at the University of Maryland (1977-83).

His academic credentials include:

• Ph.D. in Geology from Pennsylvania State University (1977)
• M.S. in Geology from University of Massachusetts, Amherst (1974)
• A.B. in Geology from Franklin & Marshall College (1971)

Dr. Onasch's research centers on Structural Geology with emphasis on fluid-mediated rock deformation at low temperatures, microstructural analysis of quartz-rich systems, and tectonic strain characterization in thrust belts and cratonic settings. His methodology integrates field mapping, laboratory experiments, and computational visualization techniques to bridge microscale deformation processes with regional tectonic frameworks.

Analysis of his 2000-2009 publications reveals consistent focus on quartz-rich rock deformation mechanisms, particularly fluid composition effects during faulting and innovative computational approaches for microstructural analysis. His work demonstrates strong interdisciplinary connections between structural geology, geomechanics, and geoinformatics, with primary outlets in the Journal of Structural Geology and Tectonophysics.

Current research initiatives examine fluid roles in low-temperature deformation and implement 3D interactive animation with low-cost VR systems to enhance geoscience education. He teaches undergraduate courses including Introduction to Geology and Earth Structure and Tectonics, alongside graduate courses in Advanced Structural Geology, Engineering Geology, and Environmental Geophysics.