Dr. Matthijs Smit

Associate Professor

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Biography

Matthijs Smit is an Associate Professor and Canada Research Chair (Tier II) at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada. His research focuses on constraining the dynamics and geochemistry of the lithosphere over time. Current projects include investigating the timing and duration of petrological processes, the formation of the early continental crust and mantle, and the effects of continental collision and exhumation. Smit is particularly interested in the controlling factors of novel geochronology applications, using methods such as Lu-Hf, U-Pb, and Sm-Nd. His work involves collaborative initiatives funded through various Canadian research grants, integrating field research, petrological micro-structural analysis, and analytical geochemistry using techniques like MC-ICPMS, LA-ICPMS, and TIMS. He has held various academic positions, including Visiting Researcher at the Swedish Museum of Natural History and has contributed to the education of students at multiple levels, including PhD and MSc candidates.

Research Interests

Experience

Associate Professor, CRC Tier II

2021-01-01 — Present

University of British Columbia • Vancouver, Canada

Currently serving as an Associate Professor and Canada Research Chair.

Assistant Professor, CRC Tier II

2014-01-01 — 2021-01-01

University of British Columbia • Vancouver, Canada

Worked as an Assistant Professor focusing on geochemistry and geology research.

Adjunct Professor

2013-01-01 — 2014-01-01

University of Copenhagen • Copenhagen, Denmark

Served as an adjunct professor while pursuing research.

DFG International Postdoctoral Fellow

2011-01-01 — 2013-01-01

University of California, Santa Barbara • Santa Barbara, USA

Conducted research as a postdoctoral fellow.

Courses

EOSC-328: Field Geology EOSC-332: Tectonic Evolution of North America EOSC-544: Geodynamics

Requirements for University of British Columbia

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6.5
Reading
Required:6.5
Writing
Required:6.5
Speaking
Required:6.5
Overall
Required:7
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:22
Writing
Required:21
Speaking
Required:21
Total
Required:100
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Philosophy or related field 3 credits in formal logic 6 credits at the upper level in history of philosophy 3 credits at the upper level in ethics or value theory 6 credits at the upper level in metaphysics, epistemology, or philosophy of science
Application Checklist
  • Online application form
  • Application fee
  • Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Writing sample (15-20 pages)
  • Statement of intent
  • Evidence of English language proficiency
Specialization Notes

Offers course-only and thesis routes. Focus areas include philosophy of science, mind, ethics, and Asian philosophy.