Dr. Alexis Navarre-Sitchler is a geologist, geochemist, professor, and Department Head of Geology and Geological Engineering at Colorado School of Mines. She also holds a joint faculty appointment with the Energy and Natural Resources Security Group at Los Alamos National Laboratory.
Dr. Navarre-Sitchler studies some fascinating questions about how our planet works—especially what happens when water and rocks interact deep underground and across entire watersheds. Her research has applications to groundwater quality, carbon capture and storage, geothermal energy, mining, and protecting water resources. She has also studied how wildfires can affect reservoirs and water quality when ash and fire retardants wash into waterways.
Her path to becoming a leading scientist included earning a bachelor's degree in geology from Mesa State College, a master's degree in geochemistry from Colorado School of Mines, and a Ph.D. in geochemistry from Penn State. Before becoming a professor, she also worked as a professional and field geologist.
Dr. Navarre-Sitchler has received an NSF CAREER Award and the Colorado School of Mines Excellence in Research Award for her work. In 2024, she was selected to lead the university's Department of Geology and Geological Engineering.
For students interested in geology, environmental science, clean water, climate and energy, engineering, or simply understanding how the Earth works, Dr. Navarre-Sitchler's career is a great example of how studying the natural world can lead to solving important real-world problems.
