Tess Oldroyd-Johnson

Program: Ph.D. in Geology

Office: Physical Sciences 207E (Halite Pod)

tessjohnson@isu.edu

I am a PhD researcher in Dr. Shannon Kobs Nawotniak’s lab at Idaho State University, with research interests in volcanology, igneous petrology, and planetary analog studies. I hope to pursue a career as a professor where I can combine research, teaching, mentoring students, and sharing my passion and excitement for geology with others.

My current research focuses on volcanic deposits at Mud Lake, Idaho, where I use spectroscopy and other analytical tools to investigate water-lava interactions and their implications for planetary science. I am also interested in shallow igneous intrusions, basaltic lava flows, and the volcanic/plutonic connection. I love getting out into the field, collecting data for my projects, going on and leading field trips, and experiencing the geology of our planet.

I earned my BS in Geology and a secondary education teaching license in Earth and Space Science Education from Southern Utah University in 2021. I completed my MS in Geology at East Carolina University in 2024, where my thesis research examined the magma plumbing system of the Copper Ridge Laccolith in the Henry Mountains, Utah. While at ECU, I also earned a graduate certificate in Community College Instruction, further preparing me to teach and mentor students at multiple educational levels.

In my free time, I enjoy hiking, camping, backpacking, and exploring new places with my husband and our super cute dog, Scout.