Rainer Newberry is interested in the genesis and characterization of all ore deposit types, but is especially involved in work with skarn, PGE, greisen, and "metamorphic" vein deposits. Most recently he has studied and published work concerning intrusion-hosted gold deposits. For the last decade he has worked with the Alaska Geological Survey creating 1:63,360 geologic maps in Interior Alaska based on intensive field work and airborne geophysical surveys. He is a senior author for 13 1:63,360 maps covering 6 different 1:250,000 quadrangles of Interior Alaska.
A wide range of student investigations in economic geology have been undertaken at UAF, representing a considerable spectrum of ore deposit types, including massive sulfide, greisen, vein, skarn, porphyry, PGE, placer, and epithermal prospects. These studies are generally oriented around basic field mapping and petrography as tools for deciphering mineral occurrences. Basic field and petrographic studies are augmented by XRD, XRF, SEM, fluid inclusion, and microprobe studies and 40Ar/39Ar dating. Some of Rainer's students have instead pursued geologic mapping (1:25,000) projects with a structural and petrologic focus. A student is currently studying the geochemistry of surface waters draining an abandoned mine.
Most students working with Rainer are supported by mining/exploration companies, which provide thesis-oriented summer employment and follow-up analytical support. Thesis projects are arranged during a student's first year based on the student's interests and industry needs. Mapping-oriented theses are supported by a joint program through the Alaska Geological Survey and the USGS ("EDMAP"). Geochemical studies are supported by the BLM and USGS |
