Rachel E. Bernard

Rachel E. Bernard is an Assistant Professor of Geology at Amherst College, currently on leave from January to December 2025. She holds a Ph.D. in Geology from The University of Texas at Austin (2018) and a B.S.E. in Geological Engineering from Princeton University (2009). Her work bridges academia and outreach, focusing on rock rheology in the Earth's deep lithosphere and promoting diversity in geosciences.

Education:

• Ph.D., Geology, The University of Texas at Austin (2018)
• B.S.E., Geological Engineering, Princeton University (2009)

Research Interests: Dr. Bernard investigates rock deformation mechanisms in the lower crust and upper mantle, particularly through xenolith analysis. Her work informs seismic hazard modeling and geophysical interpretations. She also develops educational tools like the RocKits program to engage K-12 students and maintains the Black Women in Geosciences (BWIG) directory.

Outreach & Advising: She mentors students (e.g., Ott J.N. and C. Murphy) and leads initiatives like RocKits, which provides free educational kits to teachers. Her 2018 Nature Geoscience paper highlighted systemic diversity issues in geosciences.

Teaching: Courses include Structural Geology (GEOL 291), Principles of Geology (GEOL 111), and a first-year seminar on volcanic regions (Ring of Fire).

Professional Background:

• Assistant Professor, Amherst College (2021–present)
• Visiting Assistant Professor and Postdoctoral Fellow, Amherst College (2019–2021)
• Postdoctoral Fellow, Scripps Institution of Oceanography (2018–2019)
• Science Assistant, National Science Foundation (2011–2013)
• Field Engineer, Schlumberger Oilfield Services (2009–2011)