Evan Owen

M.Sc. Geochemistry, New Mexico Tech, Expected 2023

B.Sc. Geology, Auburn University, 2019

B.Sc. Chemistry, Auburn University, 2015

• PI on USGS Earth MRI project “Geochemical analysis of the Colorado Plateau” ($660,000 over three years)
  • This project involves re-analyzing existing NURE samples from New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, and Utah, as well as collecting new rock and stream sediment samples from the Zuni Mountains and Four Corners area to help determine the critical mineral potential of the Colorado Plateau.

• Co-PI on USGS Earth MRI project “Geochemistry and detailed mapping of the Black Hawk arsenide-five element vein system” ($330,000 over three years)
  • The Black Hawk District in Grant County is the best example of the uncommon and understudied five-element (Ag-Ni-Co-As-Bi) deposits in the United States. Other worldwide examples include deposits at Cobalt, ON, Canada, Echo Bay/Port Radium, NT, Canada, Erzebirge, Germany, and Schwarzwald, Germany. Five-element deposits are characterized by native silver, bismuth, as well as nickel and cobalt arsenides. Uranium is sometimes present as uraninite. Detailed geologic mapping and geochronology will be performed in the district to better understand the genesis and timing of these fascinating veins. Whole rock and trace element chemistry, including mineral chemistry, from outcrop and mine wastes will help determine the critical mineral potential of the district.