Michael Stewart

Michael Stewart is a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Illinois, affiliated with the School of Earth, Society & Environment and the Department of Earth Science & Environmental Change. His expertise spans geochemistry, igneous petrology, and planetary geology. He teaches courses such as GEOL 117 (The Oceans), GEOL 208 (History of the Earth System), and field methods in the Western US. His research focuses on high-temperature geochemistry, including projects on the Wasatch Igneous Belt, stable-chloride isotope systems, and volcanic processes on Jupiter’s moon Io.

Research highlights include investigating mafic enclaves in Utah’s Alta Stock, sulfur cycling on Io, and crustal formation at mid-ocean ridges like Hess Deep Rift. He has pioneered field education innovations, such as integrating iPads into field camps, and collaborated on geospatial ROI studies for resource management. His work combines laboratory techniques like SEM and ICP-MS with field-based studies, emphasizing student mentorship through independent research projects.

Publications span geochemical analyses of igneous systems, planetary geology, and educational technology. His contributions advance understanding of crustal dynamics and volcanic processes while fostering hands-on learning in geoscience education.