Clinton Barineau

Clinton Barineau, PhD, is a Professor of Geology in the Department of Earth and Space Sciences at Columbus State University. He joined the university in 2007 and has served as Department Chair (2015-2019). Dr. Barineau earned his BS (1995) and PhD (2009) in Geology from Florida State University.

• Professor, Columbus State University (2018-present)
• Associate Professor, Columbus State University (2013-2018)
• Assistant Professor, Columbus State University (2007-2013)
• Full-Time Instructor, Valdosta State University (2001-2005)

Dr. Barineau's research focuses on the geological evolution of the southeastern United States, particularly the metamorphic hinterland in the southernmost Appalachians of Georgia and Alabama. His primary research areas include:

• Geologic history of eastern North America, especially the Neoproterozoic to Paleozoic tectonic evolution of the southern Appalachian Mountains
• Tectonic and geological evolution of modern and ancient orogenic belts
• Deformation and strain analysis in faults and shear zones
• Geological processes in impact craters
• Cretaceous paleogeography of southwestern GA and southeastern AL
• Earth Science Education

His recent publications demonstrate a consistent focus on Appalachian tectonics, strain analysis techniques, and paleodrainage systems. The research shows increasing sophistication in analytical methods while maintaining a strong field-based approach. Current work includes carbon sequestration via mineralization of metabasalts and continued investigation of the Coastal Plain unconformity in Alabama and Georgia.

Dr. Barineau has received significant recognition for his work:

• CSU Educator of the Year Award (2013)
• CSU Faculty Research and Scholarship Award (2016)
• CSU College of Letters and Sciences Faculty Fellow of Outstanding Teaching (2013)

He has successfully mentored numerous graduate and undergraduate students through thesis research and has secured substantial external funding from the National Science Foundation, American Chemical Society, and U.S. Geological Survey. His professional activities include organizing major geological field trips and conference sessions, as well as serving as a grant and journal reviewer for multiple organizations.

Dr. Barineau also leads the Mineral Separation Services laboratory at Columbus State University, focusing on improving techniques for extracting zircon from challenging rock types.