Tyson Smith
I am a Research Geologist who investigates records of sedimentary and tectonic processes. I am particularly interested the intersection of these two processes throughout Earth’s past.
My research combines tools from field geology, lab, and modeling approaches. Geologic maps and stratigraphic sections provide the framework in which I address questions of basin development, tectonic activity, and drainage reorganization. Within this framework, I use provenance tools (e.g., detrital zircon geochronology) and often apply source modeling methods to better understand the character and evolution of ancient sediment source areas. Much of my research has and continues to focus on late Paleozoic basin records of orogenesis across Laurentia, but I also work on records of Rio Grande rifting and Laramide deformation.
Professional Experience
2022–present: Research Geologist, U.S. Geological Survey, Denver, CO
2022: Postdoctoral Researcher, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
2020–2022: Postdoctoral Researcher, University of Houston, Houston, TX
2009–2014: Associate Geologist, BHP Billiton Petroleum, Houston, TX
2005–2006: Blasting Technician, Terra Dinamica, Granby, CT
Education and Certifications
2019: University of Houston, Ph.D. in Geology
2009: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, M.S. in Geology
2005: Central Connecticut State University, B.S. in Earth Science
Science and Products
Tracing magmatic genesis and evolution through single zircon crystals from successive supereruptions from the Socorro Caldera Complex, USA
Non-USGS Publications**
**Disclaimer: The views expressed in Non-USGS publications are those of the author and do not represent the views of the USGS, Department of the Interior, or the U.S. Government.
Ozark Dome-Arkoma Basin-Ouachita Transect
Science and Products
Tracing magmatic genesis and evolution through single zircon crystals from successive supereruptions from the Socorro Caldera Complex, USA
Non-USGS Publications**
**Disclaimer: The views expressed in Non-USGS publications are those of the author and do not represent the views of the USGS, Department of the Interior, or the U.S. Government.