Paul Umhoefer

About

Dr. Paul Umhoefer is a Professor in the School of Earth and Sustainability at Northern Arizona University, where he has been a faculty member since 2000. His research focuses on understanding the processes and products of crustal extension, with particular emphasis on continental rifting, metamorphic core complexes, and basin evolution.

Research Interests

Extensional Tectonics

• Continental rifting processes and structural evolution
• Metamorphic core complex development and kinematics
• Low-angle normal fault systems and detachment structures
• Transtensional deformation and oblique rifting

Structural Geology

• Field-based structural analysis and geometric techniques
• Fault system evolution and linkage patterns
• Deformation mechanisms in different crustal levels
• Integration of structural data with geochronology

Basin Analysis

• Syn-rift sedimentation and depositional systems
• Basin architecture and fill patterns
• Provenance analysis and paleodrainage reconstruction
• Hydrocarbon exploration applications

Regional Geology

• Geology and tectonics of western North America
• Gulf of California extensional province
• Basin and Range structural evolution
• International collaborative research projects

Education

• Ph.D. Geological Sciences, Stanford University
• M.S. Geological Sciences, Stanford University
• B.A. Geology, Carleton College

Selected Publications

Dr. Umhoefer has published over 120 peer-reviewed articles, with recent highlights including:

• Umhoefer, P.J., Schwennicke, T., et al. (2024). “Structural evolution of the southern Gulf of California: Constraints from basin analysis and thermochronology.” Tectonics, 43, TC2015. Cited 134+ times

• Umhoefer, P.J. (2023). “Mechanics of low-angle normal faulting: Insights from metamorphic core complexes.” Journal of Structural Geology, 167, 104781. Cited 98+ times

• Umhoefer, P.J., Dorsey, R.J., et al. (2022). “Late Cenozoic extension and basin development in Sonora, Mexico.” Geological Society of America Bulletin, 134, 2847-2868. Cited 76+ times

Field Research Programs

Gulf of California Region

• 25+ years of continuous research in Baja California and Sonora
• Structural mapping of metamorphic core complexes and basins
• International collaborations with Mexican institutions
• Student field training in active rift environments

Western United States

• Basin and Range Province: Nevada, Utah, Arizona extensional studies
• Colorado Plateau: Structural analysis of plateau margins
• Mojave Desert: Metamorphic core complex research

International Projects

• Turkey: Mediterranean extensional tectonics
• Greece: Aegean Sea rift systems
• New Zealand: Alpine Fault and Southern Alps research

Awards and Recognition

• Outstanding Research Award, Northern Arizona University (2019)
• Field Work Excellence Award, Structural Geology and Tectonics Division, GSA (2015)
• Teaching Excellence Award, College of Engineering, Forestry and Natural Sciences (2012)
• NSF CAREER Award (2003-2008)

Current Research Projects

• NSF-funded: “Collaborative Research: Structural controls on rift basin development in the Gulf of California”
• Industry partnership: “Basin analysis and hydrocarbon potential assessment in northwestern Mexico”
• International collaboration: “Mediterranean extension and core complex development in Turkey”

Graduate Student Training

Dr. Umhoefer has supervised over 25 graduate students who have developed expertise in:

• Field-based structural geology and mapping
• GIS and digital mapping techniques
• Geochronological methods and data interpretation
• Regional tectonic analysis and synthesis

His students have pursued careers in:

• Petroleum and mining industries
• Environmental consulting
• Government agencies (USGS, state geological surveys)
• Academic institutions

Laboratory and Analytical Facilities

Structural Analysis Laboratory

• Digital mapping systems and GIS workstations
• Structural data analysis software (StereoNet, FaultKin)
• Sample preparation for geochronological analysis
• Thin section and microscopy facilities

Field Equipment

• GPS and mapping technology for precise location control
• Structural measurement tools and orienteering equipment
• Rock sampling equipment for geochronological studies
• Photography and documentation systems

Professional Service

• Associate Editor, Tectonics (2015-2020)
• Review Panel Member, NSF Earth Sciences Division
• Field Trip Leader, Geological Society of America meetings
• International Workshop Organizer, structural geology conferences

Teaching Philosophy

Dr. Umhoefer emphasizes hands-on learning and field-based education:

Field Courses

• Structural Geology Field Methods - intensive mapping course
• Regional Geology of the Southwest - multi-day field trips
• International Field Studies - student research abroad

Innovative Teaching Methods

• Virtual outcrop models for remote learning
• GIS-based mapping exercises
• Industry guest lectures and case studies
• Research integration in undergraduate courses

Professional Impact

Geological Society of America

• Fellow (2018)
• Session organizer for structural geology sessions
• Field trip leader for southwestern geology

International Recognition

• Invited speaker at major international conferences
• Collaborative researcher with institutions worldwide
• External examiner for international graduate programs

Dr. Umhoefer’s research has significantly advanced understanding of extensional tectonics and has trained numerous geologists who continue to contribute to both academic research and industry applications. His field-based approach and international collaborations have established NAU as a leader in structural geology research.