Geochemistry Research
Cosmogenic Dating Group
The LDEO Cosmogenic Dating Group, applies terrestrial cosmogenic nuclides as chronometers and tracers in the Earth Sciences. Terrestrial cosmogenic nuclides are produced by interactions between secondary cosmic rays and near surface rocks. Our research interests cover a wide spectrum of earth scientific disciplines and include timing of ice ages, subglacial erosion rates, uplift rates of Pleistocene terraces, and a better understanding of the production systematics of cosmogenic nuclides. The group is led by Joerg Schaefer and currently consists of two other PIs, two PhD students, two master’s students and a laboratory manager. Our capabilities include the routine extraction of 10Be, 26Al, and 36Cl. In cooperation with the LDEO noble gas group (Gisela Winckler, link), we also routinely measure cosmogenic 3He. Recently, we have pioneered the terrestrial 53Mn technique as new monitor of earth surface processes, and we also have established an extraction line for in situ 14C from quartz.
Faculty and Scientists:
Joerg Schaefer, Doherty Associate Research Scientist
Meredith Kelly, Doherty Associate Research Scientist
Mike Kaplan, Post Doctoral Research Scientist
Technical support and graduate students:
Roseanne Schwartz, Lab Manager
Brent Goehring, PhD student
Meg Reitz, PhD student
The Bamboo Bike Project is a collaboration between Scientists and Engineers at The Earth Institute at Columbia University, and a bicycle builder at Calfee Design. The project aims to examine the feasibility of implementing cargo bikes made of bamboo as a sustainable form of transportation in Africa. The ultimate goals of the project are:
1. To build a better bike for poor Africans in rural areas.
2.To stimulate a bicycle building industry in Africa to satisfy local needs.
Faculty & Scientists:
David Ho, Doherty Research Scientist
John Mutter, Professor, Department of Earth and Environmental Science
Vijay Modi, Professor, Department of Medical Engineering