معرفی
Kathryn Rico is a Researcher in the School of Earth and Space Exploration at Arizona State University. Her work focuses on biogeochemical cycling of trace metals and macronutrients in aquatic environments, particularly in the context of early Earth evolution and anthropogenic impacts. She holds a B.S. in Environmental Science from DePaul University (2013) and a Ph.D. in Earth and Environmental Sciences from the University of Michigan (2019).
Her research integrates geochemistry, microbiology, and limnology to explore mechanisms of metal burial in ancient and modern systems. Key areas include trace metal redox chemistry, microbial interactions, and the co-evolution of life and Earth's geochemical environment. Recent work examines climate-driven shifts in metal burial in lakes and the role of microbial processes in sediment formation.
Rico has published extensively on topics such as molybdenum proxies in ferruginous waters, iron cycling in banded iron formation precursors, and pyrite sulfur isotopes in low-oxygen environments. Her interdisciplinary approach spans geochemical analysis, experimental microbiology, and paleoenvironmental reconstruction.
- Awards: Wares Postdoctoral Fellowship (2019), NSF Graduate Research Fellowship (2015), and multiple conference awards for research excellence.
- Teaching: Focuses on equity-driven pedagogy, active learning, and real-world research integration in courses like REAL Chemistry and Wolverine Pathways.
- Service: Leads DEI initiatives at ASU’s School of Earth and Space Exploration, including Co-President of the Postdoc Council and co-chair of the Inclusive Community Committee. Active in SACNAS and departmental outreach.
Rico mentors undergraduate and graduate students, emphasizing personalized support and skill development aligned with professional goals. She contributes to collaborative projects on photochemical iron oxidation and BIF formation mechanisms.
