2008 – Outstanding Scientist Award

Posted on by RMAG

Award: Outstanding Scientist

Recipient: Eric A. Erslev

Published in: The Outcrop, November 2008, p. 38

The Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists is pleased to bestow Dr. Eric A. Erslev with its Outstanding Scientist Award for 2008. Dr. Erslev has been on the faculty of Colorado State University since 1983 and has established himself as one of the premier researchers in the tectonics of the Rocky Mountain region. His research interests include fracture analysis, 3D structural balancing, strain analysis and 3D computer modeling of fault-­related folding.

Eric has established a reputation as one of the experts on diagnosing the structural history of the Rocky Mountain region, including post-Laramide effects. Detailed attention to structural fabric is one of his hallmarks, as is his constant effort to improve his methods and approach to his science.

Dr. Erslev has been a contributor to several RMAG activities, including co-convening the 2007 Structural Geology Symposium. He also was a co-­leader for an informal RMAG field trip in 2002 that dealt with structure along the leading edge of the Front Range.

Eric has been recognized by his peers in other professional affiliations. Among the recognitions are selection as Chair of GSA’s Structure and Tectonics Division for 2007-2008 and Vice Chair of the same organization in 2005-2007. He was a member of the Technical Program and Scientific Advisory Committee for the multi-association Backbone of the Americas meeting held in 2006 in Mendoza, Argentina that focused on the full extent of the South American and North American Cordillera.

A large part of Eric’s scientific success has come from his investment in his students. About 30 structural geology students have been awarded advanced degrees following studies under Dr. Erslev, with another handful in progress. The success of these students and the respect they have for him speaks very well for Eric’s character as a teacher and ultimately as a scientist.

For exceptional achievement in the science of structural geology, the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists presents Dr. Eric A. Erslev its Outstanding Scientist Award.