MRI: Track 1: Acquisition of a Thermal-Ionization Mass Spectrometer at Texas A&M University

About This Grant

This award supports the purchase of a new thermal ionization mass spectrometer (TIMS) that will advance science through high-precision measurements of chemical signatures of rocks, minerals, and sediments. These measurements will enable the documentation of changes in the oceans, atmosphere, and continents over millions of years. The studies will investigate ocean anoxic events, hydrothermal fluid evolution, continental weathering, and the environmental effects of volcanism. Documenting past environmental changes will help us to understand and refine models of future conditions. The instrument will also provide hands-on training for students and help build the future scientific workforce. The new TIMS will enable high-precision measurements of osmium and other isotopic systems in geologic and biogenic materials. It will allow analyses of small samples with low-level concentrations, and increase throughput and precision beyond the existing capabilities. The instrument will support ongoing NSF-funded research, including rhenium-osmium dating of black shales, isotopic tracing of paleo-oceanographic processes, and investigations of biogeochemical cycles during periods of intense environmental stress. The modern electronics and robust ion detection will enable measurements in negative-ion mode, opening new research directions and expanding into novel isotopic systems. The TIMS will also foster collaborations with national and international partners, while providing a platform for methodological innovation and training of undergraduate and graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and visiting scientists. The new capabilities will enhance TAMU’s capacity to conduct high-impact geochemical research and advance the field of isotope geochemistry. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.