Dr. Matthew Zimmerer

I am the Geologic Mapping Program Manager and a researcher at the New Mexico Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources (NMBGMR). As manager of the mapping program, I work closely with our mappers and map production team to produce high-quality, modern geologic maps that address socioeconomical issues in the State. I am also responsible for acquiring grants and contracts to fund our mapping program. A major funding mechanism is the STATEMAP Program, which itself is part of the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program. I seek guidance from our STATEMAP Advisory Committee, a diverse group of stakeholders who identify regions of interest for detailed geologic mapping and derivative projects.

My primary research interests include using geochronology and field-based methods to understand volcanic processes. 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 to assess volcanic hazards and landscape evolution throughout the region. I have several ongoing studies related to mid-Cenozoic volcanism and magmatism throughout New Mexico and Colorado that focus on topics such as the timing of precaldera volcanism with respect to caldera-forming eruptions, links between the volcanic and plutonic records, and the timing of mineralization during magmatic flare-up. I also have several projects focused on volcanism and ice sheet history in West Antarctica. Lastly, I am a FAA remote pilot and use small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for geologic mapping and monitoring changing landscapes.

In addition to an management and research, I participate in a variety of outreach and teaching opportunities. From time to time I am an instructor for the highly successful “Rockin’ Around New Mexico” workshop for K-12 teachers. I work with NASA to teach geologic mapping and related field techniques to astronauts, managers, flight directors, and engineers. I am an adjunct faculty in the Earth and Environmental Sciences department where I advise students and occasionally teach classes. I regularly give lectures for professionals and the general public. Finally, I enjoy combining my passion of photography and general interest writing to assist with bureau publications and outreach projects, such as the Southern Parks Book and The Rio Chama guidebook.

• 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

• Age-based assessment of volcanic hazards in New Mexico
• Timescales of magmatism in the Southern Rocky Mountain and Mogollon-Datil volcanic fields
• Landscape evolution of the southwest using volcanic eruptions and geochronology
• Geologic mapping of volcanic and magmatic systems in New Mexico
• Volcanic and ice-sheet evolution of West Antarctica
• Drone photogrammetry
• Field geology training for NASA