Kent Condie | geochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Kent Condie | geochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Emeritus professor at New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, United States

Summary:

Dr. Kent C. Condie is a renowned geologist and professor emeritus at the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology. With a career spanning over six decades, Dr. Condie is recognized for his pioneering research in geochemistry, plate tectonics, and Precambrian geology. He earned his B.S. and M.A. in geology and mineralogy from the University of Utah and completed his Ph.D. in geochemistry from the University of California, San Diego.

Dr. Condie has made significant contributions to understanding Earth’s early crustal evolution and mantle processes, publishing extensively, including several books and numerous research papers. He has been involved in international research collaborations and editorial roles, including as the chief editor for the Geological Society of America’s book series. His work has earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Geological Society of America Penrose Medal in 2018 and an honorary doctorate from the University of Pretoria in 2007.

👩‍🎓Education:

  • B.S. in Geology – University of Utah, 1959
  • M.A. in Mineralogy – University of Utah, 1960
    • Thesis: Petrogenesis of the Mineral Range Pluton, Southwestern Utah
  • Ph.D. in Geochemistry – University of California, San Diego, 1965
    • Thesis: Petrology and Geochemistry of the Late Precambrian Rocks of the Northeastern Great Basin

🏢 Professional Experience:

  • University of Utah: Mineralogy Laboratory Instructor, 1957-60
  • Geologist: Utah Geological Survey, 1959; Utah Mining and Construction Company, 1960
  • Washington University: Assistant Professor (1964-1969); Associate Professor (1969-1970)
  • New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology: Associate Professor (1970-1977); Professor (1977-present), Department of Earth & Environmental Science

Research Interests:

Dr. Condie is renowned for his research on Precambrian geochemistry, crustal evolution, and mantle processes. He has extensively studied trace-element distributions to understand the origins of Earth’s continental crust, with significant contributions to understanding plate tectonics through time.

Major Honors:

  • Distinguished Research Award – New Mexico Tech, 1987
  • Honorary Doctorate – University of Pretoria, South Africa, 2007
  • Penrose Medal – Geological Society of America, 2018
  • Earth Science Achievement Award – New Mexico Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources, 2023

Professional Societies:

  • Fellow, Geological Society of America
  • Member, American Geophysical Union, Geochemical Society, and American Scientific Affiliation

Top Noted Publication:

Episodic Continental Growth Models: Afterthoughts and Extensions

  • Author: KC Condie
  • Journal: Tectonophysics
  • Volume/Issue: 322 (1-2)
  • Pages: 153-162
  • Year: 2000
  • Citations: 534

Episodic Zircon Age Spectra of Orogenic Granitoids: The Supercontinent Connection and Continental Growth

  • Authors: KC Condie, RC Aster
  • Journal: Precambrian Research
  • Volume/Issue: 180 (3-4)
  • Pages: 227-236
  • Year: 2010
  • Citations: 513

Evolution of the Kaapvaal Craton as Viewed from Geochemical and Sm-Nd Isotopic Analyses of Intracratonic Pelites

  • Authors: BM Jahn, KC Condie
  • Journal: Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta
  • Volume/Issue: 59 (11)
  • Pages: 2239-2258
  • Year: 1995
  • Citations: 459

Sr, Nd, and Pb Isotopic Systematics in the Archean Low-to High-Grade Transition Zone of Southern India: Syn-Accretion vs. Post-Accretion Granulites

  • Authors: JJ Peucat, P Vidal, J Bernard-Griffiths, KC Condie
  • Journal: The Journal of Geology
  • Volume/Issue: 97 (5)
  • Pages: 537-549
  • Year: 1989
  • Citations: 404

Behavior of Rare Earth Elements in a Paleoweathering Profile on Granodiorite in the Front Range, Colorado, USA

  • Authors: KC Condie, J Dengate, RL Cullers
  • Journal: Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta
  • Volume/Issue: 59 (2)
  • Pages: 279-294
  • Year: 1995
  • Citations: 403

Conclusion:

Prof. Kent Condie’s distinguished career in geochemistry and geology, marked by his pioneering research, extensive publications, and significant contributions to the understanding of Earth’s crustal evolution, positions him as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His accomplishments reflect not only personal excellence but also a commitment to advancing the field of geochemistry through education, collaboration, and research. With targeted improvements in interdisciplinary engagement and public outreach, Dr. Condie could further enhance his already impressive legacy and influence in the scientific community.