Geologic mapping is fundamentally discovery research: it provides baseline data for varied basic research and applied problems. The mapper always uncovers new and interesting questions. Over the past 5 years, surficial mapping in the lower Wabash Valley has contributed to the existing geologic framework with insights on neotectonics, Quaternary history, and floodplain evolution. There are opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students to map 7.5’ quadrangles or portions of quadrangles, that may constitute all of a Senior Thesis or part of a graduate research project. The work involves field investigations, laboratory study, and GIS analysis. Competitive funding through the USGS EDMAP program (http://ncgmp.usgs.gov/about/edmap.html) is sought in the fall, with fieldwork beginning in late spring; deliverables are due one year from the start date.

Advisers: Andrew Phillips (ISGS, aphillps@illinois.edu), Michael Stewart (stewart1@illinos.edu)