Lydia M. Staisch
USGS Research Geologist
Geology, Energy, Minerals and
Geophysics Science Center (GMEG)
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Past positions / education
Mendenhall Postdoctoral Fellow, USGS
Ph.D., University of Michigan
B.A., Carleton College
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Fields of Study
Tectonics and Geomorphology
Earthquake and Landslide hazards
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Field Area
U.S. Pacific Northwest
Northern Tibetan Plateau
Northeast India
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Analytical Techniques
Structural mapping
Low-temperature thermochronology
Geochronology
Cosmogenic nuclide analysis
Fault gouge dating
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research interests.
My research interests are in continental deformation, landscape evolution, and hazards. I study the interactions of deformation, geodynamic processes, and erosion on various timescales (from decades to millions of years). I tend to focus my research on actively deforming regions because I think they provide a relatively clear view of contemporaneous deformation and erosion patterns throughout an orogen. At the same time, tectonically active orogens have a geologic past that provides the excitement of scientific detective work.
other interests.
Shocking as it may be, I am interested in things other than science! My totally rad husband and I love spending time outdoors, cooking or eating interesting food, and art. I also always have some DIY project going on - from knitting hats to building teardrop campers.
My dog, Jura (pictured), often accompanies us on our adventures, whether hiking, biking, canoeing, or eating the scraps dropped. She may, in fact, be the best dog ever, however I have yet to scientifically prove this.
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Our kiddo, Naomi, joined us in 2020. She luckily loves exploring outside and playing with rocks. We'll see how long she tolerates her geologist parents. Scientific or not, I'm convinced "Omi" is, in fact, be the best toddler ever.
