Departmental Resources


The Department of Geosciences is fortunate to have excellent facilities, both in terms of space and equipment. We have an equipment inventory similar to that of many quality undergraduate departments, but we also have a range of very specialized and sophisticated equipment that is more typical of graduate departments. A significant strength is that our majors and minors are able to use this equipment in course work and for research projects. We also maintain a computer laboratory with quality computers and peripherals (such as scanners and printers, digital cameras mounted on microscopes, etc.) that enhance course work and research projects and that provide valuable skills for the workplace.

The Geosciences at Smith College have always been a leader and willing participant in interdisciplinary initiatives. Because of such participation, we have close ties with, and detailed knowledge about, programs in archeology, public policy, environmental science, marine science, and engineering. These contacts mean we can advise geoscience majors and minors fully about opportunities, both for summer internships and career preparation, in a wide range of other disciplines that interconnect well with a geological background.

Essentially every year we offer a special course designed around a field experience in a unique environment. Such an extended field trip offers an opportunity for majors and minors to observe and study a fascinating area in detail. These courses include:  Carbonate Systems and Coral Reefs of the Bahamas (270j), and Geology of Hawaii (223j).

Facilities

  • X-ray Diffractometer
  • Spatial Analysis Lab with Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Software (GIS)
  • Scanning Electron Microscope with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometer
  • Field Geophysical Equipment including 12-channel seismograph, gravimeter, proton/precession magnetometers and electrical resistivity meter
  • Fully equipped Aqueous Geochemistry lab
  • Sedimentary models lab
  • High-Temperature and Pressure Hydrothermal lab
  • Field hydrology equipment including current meters, data loggers and pressure transducers
  • Fluid inclusion laboratory
  • Lab for experimental deformation of rocks and modeling rock structures
  • Research grade petrographic microscopes with cathode luminescence
  • Fully equipped lapidary and thin-section facilities.