Dr. Magdalena Osburn

Associate Professor

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Biography

Magdalena Osburn is an Associate Professor of Earth and Planetary Sciences and Civil and Environmental Engineering at Northwestern University. Her research focuses on the geochemical analysis of lipids for understanding microbial biogeochemical cycling in both modern and ancient environments. Osburn's work emphasizes the importance of molecular preservation over geological timescales, which provides valuable information about past environmental conditions. Her studies often utilize organic geochemistry tools and microbiological insights to examine hydrogen isotopic variability in lipid structures related to microbial metabolism and environmental parameters such as humidity and salinity. Additionally, Osburn investigates the stratigraphy and chemical evolution of ancient carbonate systems, particularly during the Neoproterozoic era, in sites like Oman. Her lab also focuses on isotope geobiology and the dynamics of biological molecules within geological contexts, enhancing the understanding of life's interactions with the Earth's systems across time scales.

Research Interests

Courses

EARTH 331 - Field Problems Sedimentary Geology EARTH 370 - Geobiology

Requirements for Northwestern University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:90
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
U.S. Bachelor's degree or equivalent
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose
  • Resume/CV
  • TOEFL/IELTS scores (if applicable)
Specialization Notes

Standard PhD requirements for TGS departments including Chemistry, Physics, and Sociology.