Department of Geology

Eastern Washington University

Professor Mohammed Ikramuddin

I joined the Department of Geology at EWU in September, 1976. For four years prior to coming to EWU, I was a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Analytical Chemistry at Purdue University. I have a B.Sc. degree from Osmania University, M.Sc. and Ph.D. degrees in geology from Karnatak University and a Ph.D. degree in geochemistry from Miami University.

I have been continuously retraining myself since my arrival at EWU and have taught 18 different graduate and upper-division courses in environmental-, analytical-, exploration-, isotope- and general geochemistry, mineralogy, igneous petrology and petrography. In addition, I have supervised a large number of thesis projects and independent studies. My most recent teaching assignments include courses in environmental geochemistry, analysis of metals in environmental samples, principles of geochemistry, AA methods of chemical analysis, advanced topics in geochemistry, and our capstone course.

My research interests have been in environmental, analytical and exploration geochemistry with a present emphasis on the impact of mining activities on trace element geochemistry and lead isotopic composition of sediments, soils, plants and surface and ground waters. Recently, I have also conducted a great deal of research on multi-element analyses of environmental samples and electronic materials by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). In addition, I have been collaborating with researchers from the U.S. Geological Survey on several projects. I have extensive consulting experience and have provided services to numerous mining and exploration companies, environmental agencies, analytical laboratories, federal and state agencies and the electronic industry.

I have developed several new research tools, some of which include: a process for recovery of certain chemical elements from geological materials; use of thallium as a potential guide to mineral deposits; and application of lead isotopes to trace the source of lead in drinking water.

I have authored or co-authored 125 papers and abstracts and presented 70 papers at national and international scientific meetings, including 40 papers at 18 Geological Society of America annual meetings (during the last 20 years) and 18 papers at 12 international conferences. About 50% of all publications and 75% of presentations are co-authored with graduate students.

I have been very active in obtaining several contracts and grants each year since joining EWU and have spent a considerable amount of time building a well-equipped geochemistry laboratory. The funds generated through grants and contracts have been used for purchase of equipment, chemicals and supplies, repair and maintenance of equipment and financial support of students. These funds have provided research assistantships and part-time jobs to at least 70 graduate and undergraduate students. Funding was also provided to about 30 graduate students to present papers at national and international meetings.

I enjoy international travel and visits to historical sites. I have traveled to about 20 countries, most of these visits resulting from my research activities. I also enjoy listening to Indian classical music.