GRADUATE COURSES

GLY 500 COMPARATIVE PALEOBIOLOGY

This course is intended for graduate students in paleontology, evolutionary biology, ecology, and anthropology.  Its goal is to present the major tools and concepts employed in the collection and analysis of morphological data (via geometric morphometrics and cladistics) in studies of the systematics, taxonomy, and evolutionary history of organisms, principally animals.  Emphasis will be on practice rather than theory, although the latter will appear as motivation for the work.  The course requires an exam, and completion of a project employing one or more of the methods discussed. Basic univariate statistics is a prerequisite.  (LEC, 3)

GLY 501 ELEMENTS OF GEOLOGICAL RESEARCH

This course introduces beginning graduate students to successful strategies for designing and reporting on a scientific research project. Each student will choose, with the approval of the instructor, a project of current geological interest on which to work throughout the semester. In order to accomplish the goals of the course, the student will: use up to date literature search techniques using on-line data bases and reference management tools, practice research proposal preparation and review, present scientific results orally, and discuss the process of writing and publishing a professional paper. There will be a strong emphasis on scientific writing skills and oral presentations . (LEC, 3)

GLY 505 ECONOMIC GEOLOGY

This course will describe the nature and origin of the raw materials that sustain modern life styles and developed societies.  Lectures will emphasize the formation of economic deposits of metallic and non-metallic minerals, methods of mineral exploration and exploitation, and the environmental consequences of utilizing mineral resources.  The laboratory will focus on identification of ore and associated gangue minerals using microscopic and macroscopic methods. (LEC & LAB, 3)

GLY 506 INTRODUCTION TO POWDER X-RAY DIFFRACTION THEORY AND TECHNIQUES

X-ray diffraction is a widely used technique for the analysis of crystalline materials.  The study of powdered samples is experiences a renaissance resulting from vast improvements in the diffraction experiments and in the development of new methods of data analysis.  This course is designed to introduce the student to the principles of X-ray diffraction, how the diffracted X-rays are influenced by the atomic arrangement and composition of the sample, the recording of the diffracted X-rays and how the atomic arrangement of the sample can be determined from the geometry and intensity of the diffracted X-rays. (LEC, 3)

GLY 507 GEOLOGICAL FIELD TRAINING

Applied field methods in geology. Geologic field trips and mapping from a mobile base in the western United States. Mapping projects include crystalline rocks in New Mexico and areas of increasingly complex sedimentary structure in Utah and Wyoming. (LEC, 2)

GLY 510 ADVANCED FIELD GEOLOGY

A two-week field course in interpretation of complex structural terranes. Advanced structural analysis is a major component; however, sedimentology, stratigraphy, igneous and metamorphic petrology, and geophysics are all strongly emphasized. Using classic locations in the Appalachians, the evolution of modern tectonic theory from field geology is examined.

GLY 511 MARINE ECOLOGY

Surveys tropical marine ecosystems, with an emphasis on coral reef communities. Examines processes controlling abundance and distribution of marine taxa using primary literature. (LEC, 3)

GLY 514 HYDROGEOLOGY

Occurrence and movement of water in the shallow subsurface, and its importance to water resource development and environmental pollution. Basic quantitative techniques for the prediction of water flow through porous and fractured geologic media. Laboratory includes hands on experience with aquifer testing methods, using wells located on campus. Designed primarily for students interested in the fields of hydrogeology, hydrology, environmental geology and environmental and geotechnical engineering, who have not completed a previous undergraduate course in hydrogeology. (LEC & LAB, 3) 
GLY 515 CLAY MINERALOGY

Clay minerals are the most abundant minerals at the surface of the earth. As such, they are of extreme importance in understanding environmental problems. In addition, clay minerals have interesting and useful properties that give them important technological value. This course examines the structure and chemistry of clay minerals and attempts to relate these to their properties, both geological and technological. (LEC & LAB, 4)

GLY 517 STABLE ISOTOPES AND THE ENVIRONMENT

Small differences in atomic mass among stable (non-radioactive) isotopes of the same element can give rise to differences in partitioning within the environment.  This course will explore how isotopes fractionate and how this behavior can be used to understand and decipher complex natural processes.  The hydrologic cycle will be used as a starting point to illustrate and develop the framework for applying stable isotopes to examine the broader environment.  This will provide a comprehensive knowledge base to apply the interpretation of stable isotope data to research questions in geologic, biologic and environmental sciences in the second part of the course. LEC, 3  

GLY 519 ENVIRONMENTAL GEOPHYSICS

The course will introduce the theoretical background and methods of application for several noninvasive near-surface geophysical imaging techniques, including: seismic reflection/refraction, microgravity, magnetics, electromagnetics, resistivity, and ground-penetrating radar. (LEC, 3)
GLY 520 ENVIRONMENTAL GEOPHYSICS LAB

The course will provide students with hands-on experience in experimental design, acquisition, data processing, and interpretation using several noninvasive, near surface geophysical imaging techniques, including: seismic reflection/refraction, microgravity, magnetics, electromagnetics, resistivity, and ground-penetrating radar. (LAB, 1)
GLY 521 HYDROGEOPHYSICS

The course will provide a hands-on introduction to collection, processing, and interpretation of the most frequently used geophysical and hydrological data. The geophysical component will cover seismic refraction, ground-penetrating radar, and electrical resistivity. The hydrological component will cover hydrogeologic data collection and the numerical modeling of ground-water flow (LEC, 3)
GLY 522 FRACTURED ROCK HYDROLOGY

Hydrogeology as it applies to fractured geologic media. Formation and evolution of fractured aquifers. Methods of measuring hydrologic parameters and predicting flow and transport in fractured bedrock. Prior completion of an introductory hydrogeology course is required. (LEC, 3)
GLY 523 THE HIDDEN PLANET: VOLCANIC PLUMBING

Examines the generation, rise, storage, and eventual eruption of magma on Earth and other solid bodies in the solar system. Presents different magmatic compositions and their behaviors, as well as effects of environmental conditions on magma dynamics. (LEC, 3)

GLY 524 EXTRATERRESTRIAL VOLCANISM

Examines the volcanic deposits on solid bodies throughout our Solar System, including the Moon, Mars, Venus, Io and Europa. Emphasis will be on understanding how different environments affect the mechanics and subsequent deposits of volcanic eruptions. (LEC, 3)

GLY 525 GEOCHEMISTRY SEMINAR

Various topics related to the environmental geochemistry research program. (LEC & LAB, 1-4)

GLY 526 GEOLOGY FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS

Selection and study of topics not offered as regular courses (permission of instructor required) (TUT, 1-4)

GLY 527 MODELING OF GEOLOGIC DATA

Computer modeling of complex processes is becoming more important in a number of geological areas such as risk assessment, movement of toxic contaminants in an aquifer, crystallization of magmas, impact cratering. It is essential that students have some knowledge of the processes whereby a geological problem is reduced to a mathematical model, the models then translated into a computer program and the program is utilized to produce numerical and graphical results. This course is an introduction to this practice which will allow the student to begin to apply computer simulation to his/her thesis research. The course assumes that the student has a good familiarity with digital computers. The computer language is BASIC; any mathematical complexities will be explained as the course progresses. (LEC, 3) 
GLY GLY 528 GEOLOGIC DISASTER PREVENTION

Geological disasters to be investigated include volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, landslides, hurricanes, large ocean waves, and floods.  Exercises involve case studies, quantitative risk assessment using probability analysis, and construction of hazard maps. Graduate students prepare and present PowerPoint talks and Posters on case examples. Debate on a controversial topic or a simulated crisis takes place in the last week of the course. (LEC, 3) 

GLY 529 ANALYSIS OF GEOLOGICAL DATA 1

Geological research often generates large amounts of data. The problems encountered in analyzing this data along with the appropriate statistical techniques are discussed. The emphasis is on the interpretation of the analysis in terms of solving the geologic problem. Recitation will be devoted to the study of data from real geologic problems from the areas of petrology, sedimentation, mineralogy, paleontology and geomorphology. (LEC & REC, 3)

GLY 531 VOLCANOLOGY

An examination of volcanic eruptions and their products on Earth, other planets, and on the deep ocean floor, including famous and deadly historic eruptions. Includes investigations into what causes volcanic eruptions and the petrography and structural setting of volcanoes and extrusive volcanic material, as well as the evolution of volcanic constructs through time. (LEC, 3)
GLY 533 PYROCLASTIC ROCKS

Selected topics related to the genesis, unit description, eruption mechanism , and emplacement process of pyroclastic materials.  Theoretical and practical applications including quantitative analysis of data.(LEC, 3)

GLY 534 EXPLORING VOLCANOES

This course will introduce the methods most commonly used by volcanologists in monitoring and studying active volcanoes (including geophysical methods: field observations of eruptions; remote sensing and geological mapping). Through a series of case studies, it will illustrate how such data are used to build a picture of how volcanoes work. (LEC, 3)
GLY 537 PRINCIPLES OF STRATIGRAPHY

A study of the principles of stratigraphy as illustrated by the Paleozoic succession of Western New York. Measurement and description of sections, facies changes, biostratigraphy, etc., will be included. (LEC & LAB, 4)

GLY 538 ADVANCED STRATIGRAPHY

This course reviews the key Phanerozoic formations primarily in the continental USA and relates these units to various tectonic models. (LEC & LAB, 4)
GLY 539 SEDIMENTOLOGY

Formation of sediments, dynamics of their transportation and depositional environments. Local internationally reknown sedimentary sections are studied. The relationship of tectonics and sedimentation and other factors will be discussed. (LEC, 3)

GLY 540 VERTEBRATE PALEONTOLOGY AND OSTEOLOGY

A survey of the fossil record of vertebrate animals, for the purpose of understanding their evolutionary history and the evidences used to reconstruct that history. Prior experience in basic paleontology or evolutionary biology is expected. (LEC/LAB, 4)

GLY 543 MARINE GEOLOGY

Reviews the fundamentals of deep-sea marine geology: submarine volcanic eruptions and their products; sedimentology of the sedimentary rocks; effects of water masses on both the formation and alteration of both igneous and sedimentary rock; structure and geophysics of mid-ocean ridges, passive and convergent margins; and plate tectonic aspects of the oceanic realm. (LEC & LAB, 4)

GLY 545 GLACIAL GEOLOGY

Explores the spectacular landscapes created by glaciers and ice sheets. The course provides students with knowledge to understand present and past glacier and ice sheet processes, based on the most up-to-date findings and state-of-the-art techniques. Students get hands-on experience by studying the rich ice sheet history of the Buffalo area. This lecture and lab combination provides students with a comprehensive knowledge base with which they can interpret glacier processes and history from a variety of landform assemblages and surficial sediments found across the northern United States. The laboratory consists of map and aerial photograph, computer, and field exercises. (LEC & LAB, 4)
GLY 546 GEOMORPHOLOGY SEMINAR

Topics of current interest in geomorphology, surficial processes and Quaternary geology will be considered.  Literature surveys and talks with visiting distinguished scientists will be emphasized. Format and credit will be varied to suit the subject of study and the participating faculty and students. (SEM, 1)

GLY 553 QUATERNARY DATING AND PALEOCLIMATE

Explores the Earth's large swings in climate over the past 2 million years, how they are documented, the various dating techniques used to place them into a chronological framework, and the implications for how the Earth's climate system operates. Focuses on marine sediment, ice core, and terrestrial archives of glacial and interglacial cycles, abrupt climate change, past warm periods analogous to our future world, and techniques used to date these records  

GLY 554 PLANETARY GEOLOGY

Students will compare and contrast geologic processes, and the resulting morphologies, on Earth and other solid bodies in the Solar System. Students will become familiar with spacecraft and lander-generated data sets, including how to access them from NASA data repositories and data limitations. Precise topics to be covered will be governed by current NASA Office of Solar System Research missions.   (LEC, 3)

GLY 555 EVOLUTIONARY COLLOQUIUM

Review of recent research in the field of evolutionary biology.  Topics in the areas of evolution, ecology and paleobiology are discussed in weekly sessions.(SEM, 1-3) 
GLY 558 MACROEVOLUTION

Patterns and meaning of genetic variation in natural populations, species properties and boundaries; selection in its multiple guises; speciation and rates of change in ecological and geological time; the role and limitations of adaptation in evolution and the origin of evolutionary novelties; phylogenetic and biogeographic studies and their relationship to understanding macroevolution. (LEC, 2)

GLY 560 GIS FOR EARTH SCIENTISTS

Practical survey of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), techniques and software as applied to Geology and Hydrology, intended to "jump-start" graduate students who need to use these tools. The course is project-based and focuses on application rather than theory. (LEC/LAB, 3)

GLY 562 ADVANCED ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY

Presents the chemical principles governing natural water chemistry and the behavior of anthropogenic pollutants. Emphasizes topics such as the evolution of groundwater chemistry, thermodynamics of water-rock interactions at low temperatures, and prediction of pollutant fate in aquatic systems. (LEC 3)
GLY 563 ADVANCED ENVIRONMENTAL HYDROGEOLOGY 1

Addresses the movement and behavior of contaminants in ground water. The underlying physics of water, solute, and particle transport will be emphasized in lecture, hands-on numerical simulation or field experiments are emphasized in the lab. Prior completion of an introductory hydrogeology course is highly recommended. (LEC/LAB, 3)

GLY 564 ADVANCED ENVIRONMENTAL HYDROGEOLOGY 2

Multi-phase flow in contaminant hydrogeology. Topics include Physics and chemistry of multiple phases; modeling of multi-phase flow and transport; remediation on nonaqueous phase liquids. (LEC & LAB, 3)

GLY 565 ENVIRONMENTAL REMOTE SENSING

This course covers the fundamentals of remote sensing, extraction of geological, biophysical, or land use/land cover information from remote sensing data, and provides guidelines as to how remote sensing data can be used to solve real-world environmental and geological problems. Throughout the course, the participants will be engaged in rigorous hands-on exercises that will introduce them to digital image processing techniques. The participants will learn how to extract and integrate lithologic and environmental information from a wide range of archival remote sensing data, real-time remote sensing data, digital elevation models, and maps. (LEC & /LAB, 3) 
GLY 568 ENVIRONMENTAL ORGANIC GEOCHEMISTRY

In this course, students will learn about the processes that affect the fate and transport of organic chemicals in the hydrosphere. Course content will emphasize the study of the behavior of both organic contaminants in surface and ground water environments, with some coverage of the behavior of natural organic geochemical cycles. Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be confident in their use of physical and biogeochemical data to predict the important processes that will affect a particular organic compound in the hydrosphere. (LEC, 3)
GLY 569 BIOGEOCHEMISTRY

Topics to be covered included but are not limited to: major element cycling, redox processes and bacterial respiration, and bioremediation of toxic materials. (LEC, 3)

GLY 570 ADVANCED STRUCTURE AND GEOMECHANICS

This course covers the fundamental concepts and theories applied in the study of rock deformation and geological structures. Topics include: methods of stress and strain analysis; deformation mechanisms; deformation tests; stress-strain behaviour; fluids in structural geology; and the mechanics, development and geometries of faults, joints, folds, cleavage, igneous intrusions and salt diapirs. (LEC, 3) 
GLY 571 FRACTURE MECHANICS OF ROCK

This course will describe the mechanics of fracture (joints, faults, veins, dykes, etc.) development in rock, and will discuss the application of fracture mechanics to mining, hydrocarbon exploitation, engineering, earthquakes, and structural geology. LEC

GLY 572 ADVANCED OPTICAL AND INFRARED SPECTRAL REMOTE SENSING

Pre-requisite course GLY 465/565

By acquiring information beyond the range of human vision, multi- and hyperspectral imaging sensors enable us to map and monitor the surface composition and conditions of the Earth and other planets. Applications range from mineral exploration and geologic mapping to monitoring environmental and vegetation changes. This course will teach how to process and interpret spectral images using physical models. After reviewing the fundamentals of optical and infrared remote sensing and the basics of image processing, the course will focus on a dvanced multi- and hyperspectral image interpretation methods. Students will learn how to identify different materials based on their spectral signatures, to perform subpixel-scale detection, and to create thematic maps from spectral images. Examples drawn from a variety of landscapes will illustrate the methods. LEC &LAB, 3

GLY 577 ENVIRONMENTAL FLUID TRANSPORT

Calculus-based course that provides students with the capability to analyze natural fluid dynamical processes. Topics include rheology of surficial materials, hydrostatics and aerostatics, equations of motion for fluid dynamics including Navier-Stokes equation, open-channel flow, kinematic waves, hydraulic jumps, advection-diffusion, dynamical and geometric similarity. Extensive use of computational tools to analyze flows and to organize fluid dynamical data. (LEC, 3)

GLY 578 ADVANCED FIELD METHODS

Advanced Field Methods is a field course designed to provide students with the capability to map, analyze, evaluate and interpret field data related to complex geological stratigraphy and structures, natural hazards, and Quaternary deposits and learn of the relationship of their geological work to cultural activities, particularly the exploitation of solid-earth resources and risk assessment. (LEC, 3)  
GLY 580 GEOLOGIC EVOLUTION OF NORTH AMERICA:

PLATE TECTONICS AND THE APPALACHIANS 

Provides students with a familiarity of the elements that support the concepts inherent in plate tectonics. Demonstrates the application of tectonics to the geological history of eastern North America, primarily the Appalachians. Illustrates the multidisciplinary nature of geological synthesis through in-depth studies of classic areas in the Appalachians. Optional spring field trip to the central and southern Appalachians. (LEC 3)

GLY 581 GEOLOGIC EVOLUTION OF NORTH AMERICA: WESTERN CORDILLERA

Provides students with a basic familiarity of geology of the western cordillera of North America.  Illustrates the multidisciplinary nature of geologic syntheses through in-depth studies of this complex mountain range. Emphasis on the genesis and emplacement of igneous rocks, the cause of modern earthquakes, mechanism of faults, origin of volcanoes, source of mineral deposits, and location of volcanoes. Gradate students present PowerPoint talks on specific approved topics related to the subject matter of the course. (LEC, 3)
GLY 595 HYDROGEOLOGY SEMINAR

Reviews in advanced hydrogeology based upon published literature, ongoing research, or the participation of visiting scientists. Specific topic will vary according to the interests of participating faculty and students. (SEM, 1-3)
GLY 596 ADVANCED STUDIES IN FAULTS & FRACTURES

Topics of current interest with a fracture and fault focus will be examined through discussion of assigned papers that address the issues and short presentations by students. (SEM, 1) 
GLY 597 VOLCANOLOGY SEMINAR

Provides a forum for graduate students and faculty in the volcanology program to present the results of their research and to read and discuss pertinent literature in a critical environment.  This course may be repeated for credit. (SEM, 1) 

GLY 633 GRADUATE RESEARCH

Practical experience in skills and techniques of research through association with a faculty member actively engaged in research. May be taken for credit more than once. (Permission of instructor required) (TUT, 1-12) 

GLY 700 THESIS GUIDANCE

Writing and submission of thesis or dissertation under the supervision of the major professor.(TUT, 1-12)