Unlock Student Potential: Support Undergraduate Research
Who We Are
The Jackson School of Geosciences is one of the largest and most prestigious programs of its kind in the world. We lead the way in geoscience education and have strong ties to a global research network and industry partners. The Jackson School solves complex problems across Texas, the Globe, and our universe, investigates fundamental questions about how earth systems work and seeks to apply our knowledge for the benefit of humankind.
The Jackson School offers degrees that combine rigorous classes, fieldwork experience, and opportunities to conduct research with award-winning faculty and scientists. This real-world experience helps prepare students for successful careers where they can create, innovate and lead.
What We’re Fundraising For
Jackson School undergraduates are invited to become part of the work that changes the way we think about our planet and beyond. Conducting research as an undergraduate is a great way to learn new skills, explore a curiosity, or join a community of researchers to learn about how science is done. And, the earlier they start the better!
Currently, a limited number of undergraduates participate in this research. Our goal is to give all undergraduates this opportunity, and that means additional support for lab and field supplies, travel, and stipends for students with financial needs.
Brooke Kopecky in the field at the Grand Canyon
Brooke Kopecky, B.S. ’19, is an environmental coordinator currently working at ABEI Energy, a company that generates power from renewables. From 2017 to 2019, she worked as a student research assistant in The University of Texas Institute for Geophysics’ climate group.
“I was part of a paleoclimate lab using isotope geochemistry to study climate,” Brooke said. “My own project investigated variability in El Niño in the Mid-Holocene, which was around six to seven thousand years ago. My research has taken me through every step in the process, from getting and analyzing data from corals, to interpreting climate records and drawing conclusions.”
The skills Brooke learned as a student researcher are helping her succeed in her job and follow her dream of becoming an environmental scientist.
IrIineo Sanchez near Mt. Ngauruhoe (Mount Doon)
at Tongariro National Park, New Zealand
Irineo Sanchez, B.S. ’21, conducted original research on the flow of water over the Martian surface about 3 billion years ago. Working with Assistant Professor Timothy Goudge, he analyzed images of nearly 100 river valleys that have an amphitheater shape at their head in the Valles Marineris region of the red planet.
Irineo found evidence of surface water flow and flooding — rather than groundwater seepage, as previously suggested — in 90 percent of the features. His thesis demonstrated there was still enough water on the surface to flow 500 million years after the original formation of the main Martian river valleys.
“This project gives some very interesting, new insights into this key transition time in Mars history, showing that surface water remained available, which goes counter to a lot of past work on these features,” Goudge said. “It also shows how Irineo is dedicated and passionate about planetary research."
Lab manager Josh O’Connell and undergrad research assistant
Addison Savage monitor equipment in the UT Pressure Core Center.
On the left are rows of pressure cores containing hydrate-bearing
sediment samples obtained from the Gulf of Mexico in 2017.
Your Impact
Research is at the core of what the Jackson School does. We are working to solve some of the most complex problems facing humanity and pushing the boundaries of innovation to uncover opportunities for the future. By investing in the undergraduate experience through research, you will help us prepare students with critical thinking skills to undertake tomorrow’s biggest challenges.
Please give today, at any level. Thank you!
