Leadership & Vision

The College of Geosciences at Texas A&M University is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Julie Newman as the new head of the Department of Geology and Geophysics. Newman brings to this position her comprehensive leadership experience, deep knowledge of the Department of Geology and Geophysics, and a forward-looking perspective for the department.

“We are so thrilled that Dr. Newman is taking on the critical role of department head,” said Dean of the College of Geosciences Dr. Debbie Thomas. “She is a trailblazing researcher in structural geology and tectonics, a gifted educator, and, as the first woman ever to lead the Department of Geology and Geophysics, we add selfless leader to her growing list of accolades. We know the department will continue to thrive and become a top program in the nation under Dr. Newman’s leadership.”

Newman has been with the College of Geosciences for over 20 years.

An expert in her field, Newman has spent her career researching the strength and behavior of the earth’s lithospheric layers and mountain-building processes. She has been a principal investigator on numerous National Science Foundation grants and is highly regarded by her peers in academia.

Newman is also recognized as an exceptional educator. In 2010, she was designated as a Texas A&M Montague - Center for Teaching Excellence Scholar for the College of Geosciences. Her continued dedication to educating both undergraduate and graduate students ensures the next generation is passionate about geology and geophysics.

Julie Newman

Dr. Julie Newman, Geology & Geophysics Department Head

View Julie Newman's Faculty Profile

Mission

The primary mission of the Department of Geology and Geophysics is framed by being created as a Land Grant University, a Sea Grant University, and a Space Grant University. Through these strong foundations our mission is to:

  • Provide quality education
  • Provide cutting-edge research
  • Provide outreach to the citizens of Texas extending to the national and international arena
  • Advance new understanding of the Earth System and apply these to the needs of society
  • Prepare the next generation of geoscientists to conduct research, to find and develop natural resources, and to measure and respond to environmental change

Vision

The Department of Geology and Geophysics is engaged in cutting-edge scholarship related to Earth and its complex systems and processes: the interactions among solid Earth, hydrosphere, biosphere, as they impact society. The department is committed to excellence in discovery and creation of new knowledge about Earth, enabling life-long learning by all students about Earth processes and the impacts and engagement of faculty, students and the public addressing and solving the challenges associated with stewardship of Earth.

With this vision, the Department of Geology and Geophysics seeks to lead in the discovery, dissemination, and application of knowledge about Earth (including its physical, chemical, and biological components and their interactions).

By lead, we mean:

  • Educate students of diverse backgrounds who rise to leadership positions in industry, government, and education;
  • Conduct interdisciplinary, innovative, technologically advanced research that is widely translated and communicated for the benefit of a global society;
  • and Prepare all students for thoughtful, life-long participation in public issues related to science, technology, and society.