Gokce Ustunisik
دانشیار · Experimental Petrology
South Dakota School of Mines and Technologyمعرفی
Dr. Gokce Ustunisik is an Associate Professor in the Department of Geology & Geological Engineering at South Dakota School of Mines & Technology (SD Mines). She is also the Curator of Minerals at the Museum of Geology. Her research focuses on experimental petrology, high-temperature geochemistry, and planetary processes. She earned her Ph.D. in Geochemistry from the University of Cincinnati (2009), followed by postdoctoral work at Stony Brook University and the American Museum of Natural History. At SD Mines, she established the Experimental Petrology Laboratory and leads the IEDA Experimental Community (EARTHCHEM), managing databases like LEPR and traceDs.
- Education:
- B.S. Geological Engineering, Ankara University, 2001
- M.S. Geology, Ankara University, 2004
- Ph.D. Geochemistry, University of Cincinnati, 2009
Research Interests: Dr. Ustunisik examines magmatic volatiles (water, Cl, F, S, C) in planetary systems, particularly their roles in crust formation and modification on the Moon and Mars. She investigates trace element partitioning in minerals, volcanic processes in mid-ocean ridges, and carbon sequestration via microbial activity. Her work bridges microscale mineral analysis (EPMA, SIMS) with planetary-scale models, supported by NSF grants and other agencies.
Her articles highlight advancements in experimental petrology, Martian geochemistry, and data infrastructure for geoscience. She emphasizes collaborative projects like IEDA2 to enhance data sharing. Teaching responsibilities include core courses in mineralogy, petrology, and graduate-level planetary geology.
