David Schmidt
Associate Professor of Environmental Science and Geology
CSC 220
Department(s):
Biology and Environmental Science
Biography:
Scholarly/Professional HighlightsDr. Schmidt became a member of the Westminster faculty in the fall of 2013. Prior to this, he taught at Wayland Baptist University (Plainview, Texas) for five years and assisted in the development of a new geology program. In 2009, he graduated from Texas Tech University earning a Ph. D. in geology. Before his doctoral studies, he worked for the Kansas Department of Transportation as a Geologist I. Dr. Schmidt earned a M.S. in geology at Fort Hays State University in 2002, and a B.S. in geology at the University of Missouri at Kansas City in 1999.
Current research interests include: vertebrate paleontology of Chadronian, Orellan, and Hell Creek stratigraphy; invertebrate paleontology and sedimentology of the Blackwater Draw Formation; XRD and stable isotope analyses of fossil gastropods; flow dynamics, sedimentology, and water quality of fluvial systems; and the effect of severe drought conditions on groundwater and water reservoirs of west Texas. Many of these topics have been the focus of on-going undergraduate student research.
Education
Ph. D. in Geology, Texas Tech University
MS in Geology, Fort Hays State University
BS in Geology, University of Missouri at Kansas City
Background
At Westminster, Dr. Schmidt is teaching a variety of earth science courses to support the Environmental Sciences major. He has been trained in various subdisciplines of geology that include paleontology, sedimentology, geochemistry, and environmental geology. With such a broad background, it has allowed him to teach biological, natural history, geological, and environmental related courses.
Personal Note
My whole life has been dedicated to exploring and understanding the mysteries of nature. At Westminster, I am grateful for the opportunity to share my enthusiasm of the earth sciences with students.
In my spare time, I enjoy outdoor activities that include hiking, camping, kayaking, running, and fossil collecting. I also enjoy playing guitar, cello, and spending time with family and friends.