Unraveling Earth's Past: A Geologist's Extraordinary Adventure

Fossils: Nature's Time Machine

To Dr. Lidya Tarhan, rocks are more than inert objects – they are windows into the past. Each fossil embedded within holds secrets about the ancient flora and fauna that once roamed our planet.

A Lifelong Passion

Dr. Tarhan's unwavering love for the natural world ignited during her undergraduate years at Amherst College. There, she delved into the study of geology, aided by the college's exceptional natural history collections and a Summer Research Fellowship with the Howard Hughes Medical Institute.

Decoding Ancient Landscapes

Her research deepens our understanding of life on Earth, from creatures that once swam in bygone oceans and scoured ancient seabeds to micro-organisms and the birth of life on land.

Yale: A Catalyzing Environment

After earning her degrees at the University of California, Riverside, Dr. Tarhan joined the prestigious Yale faculty in 2019. Yale has been instrumental in her career, providing unparalleled opportunities as a postdoctoral fellow and associate.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Dr. Tarhan's enthusiasm for her work extends beyond her research. She mentors four Ph.D. students and two postdoctoral researchers, fostering scientific curiosity and igniting their passion for Earth's past.

Teaching the Tapestry of Earth's Surface

Through her undergraduate course, Dr. Tarhan empowers students to analyze sediment formations, revealing the natural processes and events that shaped our planet. Her diverse class attracts students from various backgrounds, creating a vibrant learning environment.

Beyond the Rocks: Modern Seafloor Dynamics

Expanding her research, Dr. Tarhan explores modern coastal seafloor communities. She investigates the impact of bioturbators – aquatic creatures that churn seafloor sediments – on their ecosystems and their resilience to climate change.

The Significance of the Geologic Record

"The geologic record is not just a testament to the past," Dr. Tarhan emphasizes. "It holds valuable insights into our present and can help us envision the future of our planet amid environmental challenges."