October 14, 2009

Professors and students from the California State University, Fresno Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences will present 25 papers at the Geological Society of America’s (GSA) annual conference Oct. 19-21 in Portland, Ore.

The papers, 15 of which are co-authored by students, will be presented and then published by the GSA. Topics include the importance of water in the Central Valley, Fresno’s air quality, earthquakes in California and the formation of Yosemite National Park.

Once published by GSA, the papers can be picked up by the world’s industry-related journals.

“This is a great opportunity for our undergraduate and graduate students to attend the conference, meet professionals in the field, present their hard work and get published,” said Dr. Fraka Harmsen, associate dean of the College of Science and Mathematics.

Harmsen said the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences has made an effort to encourage more published work and research by undergraduate students.

“When students get the chance to present their work, they are finally able to see the outcome of all their efforts,” said Harmson. “We strongly believe in giving undergraduates research opportunities that will allow them to learn and grow in the field.”

For more information, contact Harmsen at 559.278.3936 or frakah@csufresno.edu.