The primary research of this group involves the utilization of geochemical tracers to understand earth processes. The group uses trace element and major element concentrations and ratios as well as radiogenic isotopic ratios (Rb-Sr, Sm-Nd, Pb-Pb, Lu-Hf) to study a wide variety of topics in earth sciences such as the petrogenesis and the geodynamic and tectonic evolution of igneous and metamorphic rocks in various temporal and spatial geological settings.

The group has established a series of clean rooms (classes 10, 100, 1000, and 10,000) and a LA-MC-ICPMS and facility and is working on developing new non-traditional isotope systematics like Zn, Cu, and Li for applications in both hard rock geochemistry as well as in rock-water-soil interactions. Additionally, the group is also establishing traditional high-temperature radiogenic isotope systems (Sr-Nd-Pb-Hf).