Eric Mittelstaedt

Eric Mittelstaedt is an Associate Professor in the Department of Earth and Spatial Sciences at the University of Idaho, affiliated with the College of Science. He holds a Ph.D. in Geology and Geophysics from the University of Hawaii (2008) and a B.S. in Astrophysics from UCLA (2002). His teaching focuses on advanced geophysics courses, including GEOL 422 (Principles of Geophysics), GEOL 433/533 (Geodynamics), and GEOL 510 (Geosystems).

Dr. Mittelstaedt's research explores mid-ocean ridge dynamics, hotspot volcanism, and mantle processes. Key areas include mid-ocean ridge segmentation, plume-ridge interactions, and mantle convection modeling. He employs cross-disciplinary approaches such as neutrino oscillation tomography to study Earth's deep structure. His work also involves geochemical analyses of magmatic systems (e.g., Mid-Atlantic Ridge popping rocks) and tectonic-magmatic evolution of regions like the Galápagos Islands and Venusian analogs.

Recent projects highlight innovations like educational video games for deep-sea geology and collaborations with international consortia (e.g., Rift2Ridge Initiative). His research integrates laboratory experiments, numerical simulations, and field data from submersible expeditions, emphasizing global seabed mapping and hydrothermal vent systems.

Labs/Teams: Active participation in interdisciplinary oceanographic and planetary science projects, leveraging high-resolution gravity data and advanced geophysical instrumentation.