October 24, 2025
Meet our new faculty: Elizabeth Patterson
Elizabeth Patterson, geology and environmental geosciences | Photo by Rick Smith
My research focuses on: As a paleoclimatologist, I get to combine my two favorite fields—geology and climate science—to investigate past climate change. I analyze geochemical variations in corals and stalagmites (which form in layers over time—think tree rings!) to reconstruct past patterns in rainfall, temperature, and ocean circulation.
Most of my work has taken me to the caves and coral reefs of Southeast Asia and the Indo-Pacific, but I’m already eyeing some local Pennsylvania caves for my next adventure.
This fall, I am teaching: GEOL 205: Oceanography
What students can expect from me: I bring the outside world into the classroom, whether through field trips, real data, or tackling real-world problems with geoscience. Students will gain practical skills and a deeper understanding of how science applies beyond the classroom.
Getting to know me: I love spending time outdoors (hiking, gardening, camping), but perhaps my true summer hobby is watching Love Island every night.
