Katelyn Lehman Franco

Ph.D., Geology

I am an enthusiastic geologist and educator who employs major and trace element geochemistry, isotopes, and remote sensing to unwrap planetary forming processes and the events that produce volcanic activity. Specifically, I use these tools to constrain the petrogenesis of ancient lava flows and reconstruct the tectonic setting in which the rocks formed. I completed my B.S. and M.S. in Geology at Texas Christian University. I am excited to work as a Ph. D. student under Dr. Rita Economos, studying lunar apatites to understand the Moon's evolution. My passion for geology also spurs my outreach efforts. I am excited to connect underserved populations to Earth and space sciences, mainly children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.