
Dr. Matthew Zimmerer
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New Mexico Bureau of Geology & Mineral Resources
New Mexico Institute of Mining & Technology
801 Leroy Place
Socorro NM 87801-4796
575-835-5114
(575) 835-6333 fax
My primary research interests include using geochronology, geochemistry, and field- based methods to understand volcanism in the southwestern United States. Most recently, I am applying the 40Ar/39Ar and U/Pb dating techniques to develop a comprehensive, accurate, and precise geochronology of Quaternary eruptions in New Mexico with the ultimate goal of assessing the volcanic hazards throughout the region. I am also interested in using the volcanic record to constrain landscape evolution in the southwest. In 2015 I joined the mapping program at the NMBGMR. I am currently developing and implementing the use of small unmanned aircraft systems for geologic mapping.
In addition to an active research program, I participate in a variety of outreach and teaching opportunities. I am a regular instructor for the highly successful “Rockin’ Around New Mexico” workshop for K-12 teachers. Each summer I co-instruct the New Mexico Tech Field Camp based out of the northern New Mexico. I regularly give lectures for professionals and the general public. Finally, I enjoy using my passion of photography and videography to assist with bureau publications and outreach projects.
(See Curriculum Vitae)
Education
- B.S., 2005, University of Kentucky
- M.S., 2008, New Mexico Tech
Thesis: The 40Ar/39Ar geochronology and thermochronology of the Latir volcanic field and associated intrusions: Implications for caldera-related magmatism - Ph.D., 2011, New Mexico Tech
Dissertation:The Volcanic-Plutonic relationship at three contrasting Rio-Grande-Rift-Faulted Calderas
Projects
- Age-based assessment of volcanic hazards in New Mexico
- Timescales of magmatism in the Southern Rocky Mountain volcanic field
- Landscape evolution of the southwest using basaltic lava flows and detrital sanidine geochronology
- Mapping the Mogollon-Datil volcanic field
- Geologic mapping with small unmanned aircraft systems