Dennis L. Newell

Dennis L. Newell is a Professor & Interim Department Head in the Department of Geosciences at Utah State University. His research focuses on aqueous and stable isotope geochemistry, fluid-rock-biosphere interactions, and geofluids in continental tectonics. He has extensive expertise in low-temperature geochemistry, geothermal energy exploration, and geologic carbon sequestration, integrating interdisciplinary approaches to study crustal fluid systems.

Education:

• PhD in Earth and Planetary Sciences, University of New Mexico, 2007
• MS in Geology, Colorado State University, 1997
• BS in Geology, New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, 1992

Research Interests:

Dr. Newell's group investigates fluid flow in faults, mantle-to-surface volatile flux, and geothermal potential. They employ field-based geochemical tools, including stable isotopes and He isotopes, to address applied problems like carbon sequestration and geothermal energy. Key themes include fluid provenance, crustal hydrology, and tectonic influences on fluid circulation.

Grants & Advising:

• Mentored numerous graduate students in geosciences, including Coleman Hiett, Heather Upin, and Jace Koger.
• Contributed to the Geothermal Play Fairway Analysis in Idaho and Peru, with fieldwork in the Andes and Alaska.
• Developed methods for tracing CO2 leakage in aquifers and evaluating fault zone fluid pathways.

Labs & Teams: Maintains the Stable Isotope Lab at USU, supporting research in fluid-rock interactions and geochemical analysis.