Department of Geology and Geophysics
Professor Emeritus James R. Steidtmann has published and lectured extensively on the geology of the Rocky Mountain region. One of his many interests focused on the timing and characterization of mountain building and the interplay between mountain growth and basin development. His work and that of his co-researchers offered concepts that significantly impacted oil and gas exploration in Wyoming, and have application to oil and gas development around the world. Steidtmann received many awards and honors for his work, including the American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG) A.I. Levorsen Memorial award for best presentation. Steidtmann traveled throughout the United States as a distinguished lecturer for the AAPG.
A gifted teacher, Steidtmann passed on his enthusiasm to numerous students, many of whom have gone on to become internationally recognized geoscientists and leaders in both academia and industry. He is at heart a “field geologist” and has mentored many students one-on-one in the field, instilling in them the curiosity and observational skills that have served Steidtmann so well.
In addition to his dedication to student achievement, Steidtmann possessed a deep commitment to the success of the Department of Geology and Geophysics and worked tirelessly to strengthen it when he served as its head.