David E. Blake

David E. Blake is an Associate Professor of Geology at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. His research focuses on the tectonic evolution of the North American craton, particularly in North Carolina and Idaho, emphasizing structural and metamorphic studies. He holds a Ph.D. from Washington State University (1991), M.S. from North Carolina State University (1986), and B.S. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (1982).

Education:

• B.S., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 1982
• M.S., North Carolina State University, 1986
• Ph.D., Washington State University, 1991

Research Interests: Blake investigates structural and metamorphic fabrics in volcanic and metamorphic rocks, tectonic accretion processes, and terrane correlations. His work spans the eastern Piedmont of North Carolina and the Salmon River Canyon in Idaho. He employs geologic mapping, geochemical analysis, and structural interpretation to unravel Proterozoic to Mesozoic deformation histories.

Publications & Mapping: Blake has authored/co-authored over 50 peer-reviewed papers and contributed to numerous geologic maps, including the Raleigh West Quadrangle and the Salmon River Canyon region. His recent work emphasizes terrane transitions in North Carolina and ductile deformation along the western Idaho shear zone.

Grants & Advising: He mentors graduate students in field-based projects funded by USGS and NCGS programs. Notable advisees include Daniel Rhodes, David Parnell, and Dawn Reed. His research has been supported by grants from the U.S. Geological Survey and the North Carolina Geological Survey.