Jordan Abell

Assistant Professor, Earth and Environmental Sciences
College of Arts and Sciences
Professor Abell

What are your research interests?

Broadly, I study climate and humans in the past using the chemistry of rocks, dirt, and mud. Specifically, my work addresses questions such as: What was atmospheric and ocean circulation like during a warmer-than-present world? How did the land, ocean and atmosphere interact over the last several million years? Can we identify new feedbacks between the climate system and ever-changing landscapes? What can we learn about past civilizations from the chemistry of archaeological sediments?

What classes are you teaching at Lehigh?

This fall I will be teaching EES 095 - Earth's Climate from the Dinosaurs to the Day After Tomorrow. In the future, I also plan to teach undergraduate and graduate courses on modern climate, past climates and how we use chemistry to study the Earth and ancient civilizations.

What degrees do you hold and where did you earn them?

  • B.S. in geosciences from the University of Arizona
  • M.A. in Earth and environmental sciences from Columbia University
  • MPhil in Earth and environmental sciences from Columbia University
  • Ph.D. in Earth and environmental sciences from Columbia University; National Science Foundation Ocean Sciences Postdoctoral Fellowship at the University of Arizona

What was your previous institution?

University of Arizona

What do you enjoy most about teaching?

It is always a wonderful experience getting to see students understand new concepts. I also enjoy the opportunity to engage with students about Earth's climate and how a changing climate impacts the world around them.

Why did you choose Lehigh?

I was quite drawn to Lehigh's commitment to excellence in both research and teaching. I also really appreciate Lehigh's support of undergraduate research.