College of Sciences
Department of Earth & Environmental Sciences Fiscal Year 2025-2026
Message from Leadership
Dear Donor, This year, I have been inspired by the curiosity and dedication of our students and faculty as they investigate the forces shaping our planet. Their work spans earthquakes, volcanoes, tsunamis, coastal change, critical minerals, water systems, and climate impacts. The most rewarding part of my role is seeing students grow into skilled scientists through research, field experiences, and collaboration with faculty mentors. Next year, we will begin renovating the Isotope Geochemistry Laboratory, creating a world-class center for research on critical minerals, geochronology, paleoclimate, and environmental remediation. This investment will expand research capabilities and provide students with access to state-of-the-art facilities. Philanthropic support fuels exploration in the Earth sciences. Through scholarships, field experiences, and research opportunities, students are empowered to ask big questions about our planet and seek answers in the geologic record. Thank you for supporting the next generation of geoscientists, environmental leaders, and informed citizens.
Jessica Whiteside, Ph.D. Chair and Professor, Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences
Philanthropy
Propelling the SDSU Community Forward Barbara White Slyker Scholarship Endowment for Earth and Environmental Sciences The Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences received a generous gift to establish the Barbara White Slyker Scholarship Endowment for Earth and Environmental Sciences, benefiting upper-division undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees in the department. Scholarship support helps students advance their studies and participate in academic and research opportunities. Vince Landis Geology Student Field Experience Endowed Fund Generous contributions to the Vince Landis Geology Student Field Experience Endowed Fund continue to expand opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students majoring in geology. Through field-based learning and research experiences, students gain practical training and firsthand exposure to geological processes in real-world environments.
Students gain hands-on experience analyzing geophysical data collected during a research expedition off the California coast.
Field experiences at the Grand Canyon provide students with opportunities to conduct research, build community, and gain firsthand insight into Earth’s geologic history.
Student Spotlight
Thriving in the Aztec Experience Brittnie Wall, Class of 2026 Class Level: Graduate Student College: College of Sciences Major: Geology - Emphasis in Paleontology Words cannot fully express my gratitude to San Diego State University for the prestigious opportunity to learn from, train with, and work alongside such exceptional professional scientists. The professors at SDSU willingly offered an overwhelming amount of kindness and belief in my potential, consistently going above and beyond to support my journey. Throughout this time, I found far more than peers and mentors; I built lifelong bonds that feel much more like family. Every future achievement of mine will be a shared success, deeply rooted in the unwavering support of this community. These profound memories are ones I will cherish forever.
Jovani Bell, Class of 2026 Class Level: Undergraduate Student College: College of Science Major: Geological Sciences Being part of the SDSU community was an amazing experience that introduced me to new friendships and numerous hands-on experiences that I will never forget. These experiences helped me develop my abilities as a scientist and gain a greater appreciation for our earth.
Student Spotlight
Jazlyn Piera, Class of 2026 Class Level: Undergraduate Student College: College of Sciences Major: Environmental Sciences One of the highlights of my experience with the College of Sciences was the opportunity to go beyond the role of a student. Not only did I learn a great deal from my classes, but I was also able to put that knowledge into practice. As a junior, I served as an undergraduate learning assistant for BIOL 204, a course I had taken the previous year. As a ULA, I used my experience as a student to facilitate learning for other students, which strengthened my communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. I also collaborated on and conducted my own research, which strengthened my ability to explore new topics, develop research methods, and generate new knowledge. I presented my work at the S3 Symposium, EDUFAN Symposium, and Sustainability Summit, giving me the opportunity to share my findings and make new connections. What made these experiences especially meaningful was the support I received from the College of Sciences faculty and staff. Their mentorship helped me build confidence and take advantage of these opportunities. I am grateful not only for what I learned in the classroom but also for the chance to develop skills that will continue to shape my future.
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I am grateful not only for what I learned in the classroom but also for the chance to develop skills that will continue to shape my future.
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Points of Pride
Celebrating Shared Success Current Rankings The Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences (EES) is ranked No. 89 among Earth Sciences graduate programs in the United States. Statistics of Interest The spring 2026 census showed enrollment of 209 undergraduate students in environmental science and 64 undergraduate students in geology. The M.S. in geology program had 22 enrolled students, with an additional 10 students expected to begin in fall 2026. The Ph.D. in applied geophysics program had five enrolled students, with three additional students expected to begin in fall 2026. Recent Highlights Faculty in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences continued to advance research excellence through significant external funding and international scholarly recognition. During the past year, major grants from the National Science Foundation were awarded separately to Professors Sam Bova and Kim Olsen, supporting innovative research in their respective fields. In spring 2026, Professor Matthew Weingarten was awarded the prestigious Erskine Fellowship and completed a sabbatical appointment at the University of Canterbury in New Zealand, where he collaborated with international researchers and further enhanced the department’s global research profile.
National Ranking
EES ranked No. 89 among earth sciences graduate programs in the United States.
By the Numbers
EES enrolled 300 students in Spring 2026, with 273 undergrads, 27 grad students, and 13 more grad students expected in Fall 2026.
Faculty and Staff Achievements
Jillian Maloney, Ph.D. Title: Associate Professor of Geological Sciences College: College of Sciences Achievement: Led an offshore research expedition to the Outer California Borderland, where students and researchers investigated offshore faults, submarine landslides, and tsunami hazards. The project expanded student research opportunities and generated significant media attention. Jillian shared the following: One of the highlights of this year was leading an offshore research expedition to the Outer California Borderland with a team of students, researchers, and collaborators. The project focused on mapping submerged landscapes, active fault systems, submarine landslides, and potential tsunami hazards off the Southern California coast. These offshore environments preserve important records of both geologic processes and human history, providing unique opportunities to better understand natural hazards and past environmental change. What made the expedition especially rewarding was the opportunity to involve students directly in every stage of the research process. Students gained hands-on experience collecting and interpreting geophysical data at sea, working alongside scientists from multiple disciplines and institutions. Experiences like these provide invaluable training and help prepare the next generation of geoscientists for careers in research, environmental science, and hazard assessment. The expedition also generated significant public interest and media coverage, creating opportunities to share our discoveries with a broader audience and highlight the importance of earth science research. By combining student training, scientific discovery, and public engagement, this project reflects the mission of SDSU and the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences to advance knowledge while preparing students to address the environmental challenges facing society.
Faculty and Staff Achievements
Jessica Whiteside, Ph.D. Title: Chair and Professor, Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences College: College of Sciences Achievement: Engaged students in international research and collaboration opportunities spanning three continents, including reconnaissance drilling in the Tibetan Himalayas, research partnerships in Portugal, and participation in activities supporting preparations for COP30 in Brazil. Professor Jessica Whiteside continued to expand international research and educational opportunities for SDSU students through fieldwork and collaborations spanning three continents. Over the past year, she led student participation in activities ranging from reconnaissance drilling work in the Tibetan Himalayas to research collaborations in Portugal and engagement in preparations related to COP30 in Brazil. These experiences provided students with firsthand exposure to the global nature of earth and climate science. In the Tibetan Himalayas, students contributed to research efforts aimed at understanding Earth’s climate and environmental history. In Portugal, they participated in international collaborations that strengthened scientific partnerships and expanded research networks. Activities connected to COP30 in Brazil highlighted the critical role of science in informing global conversations about climate change, sustainability, and environmental policy. Through these opportunities, students gained valuable research experience while developing a broader understanding of how scientific challenges and solutions transcend national boundaries. International engagement also helped students build professional networks, strengthen communication skills, and appreciate the importance of collaboration in addressing complex environmental issues.
Thank you for your generous support.
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