Andrew Beck

Dr Beck’s research utilizes electron microscopy, along with nuclear and reflectance spectroscopy, to further understand igneous differentiation and subsequent geological processes impacting rocky planetary bodies.  He does this via achondrite meteorite laboratory research, and participation on NASA/JAXA planetary missions visiting the Moon, Mars, asteroids, and other bodies – he is currently a CO-I on the JAXA MMX mission to the Martian moons.  Dr. Beck is also a consultant in terrestrial geology projects, focusing on the intersection between mineralogy and human health. 

Dr. Beck teaches courses in mineralogy, petrology, and planetary science at St. Lawrence and leverages field-based teaching when possible.  Beck has been fortunate to have taught geology field camp (5-week field course) throughout his career and was part of the Antarctic Search for Meteorites Team.  Beck majored in philosophy as an undergraduate, finding geology only through the diverse educational path requirements of a liberal arts education.  As such, he highly values opportunities to introduce geology to SLU students and to increase its exposure to the public.