- Ph.D., Organic Geochemistry, University of Bristol, U.K., 1980
- B.Sc., Chemistry and Geology, University of Bristol, U.K., 1976

Simon C. Brassell
Professor, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences
Professor, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences
Determination, assessment, and interpretation of molecular and isotopic characteristics of organic matter to identify biogeochemical processes associated with carbon cycling in modern and ancient natural systems.
Activities focused on the exploration and application of biomarkers and their isotopic signatures as environmental, paleoclimatic, stratigraphic and geochemical tools to better understand:
G131: “Oceans and Our Global Environment.” An introductory course for non-science majors incorporating on–line web–based exercises in an interdisciplinary exploration of controls on oceanographic processes with an emphasis on the climatic and environmental importance of Earth’s oceans.
C105: “Records of Global Climate Change.” An introductory science course that examines evidence for climate change in Earth’s past, explores the present-day climate trends, and assesses predictions of future change and its consequences for society and the environment.
G302: “Development of the Global Environment.” An exploration of Earth history focused on its development, its atmosphere, oceans and continents, the evolution of life, catastrophic events and climate change.
G587: “Organic Geochemistry.” A comprehensive exploration of measurement and applications of molecular and isotopic characteristics of organic matter focused on principles and processes, coupled with topical readings from recent literature.
G690: “Organic Geochemical Stratigraphy.” Examination of temporal changes in biogeochemical records and the causes of their variability through exploration and evaluation of records from marine and lacustrine settings, and from modern and ancient systems.
G690: “Petroleum Geochemistry” Examination of the chemistry of petroleum, with a focus on the origins and fate of molecular constituents, especially controls on their occurrence and abundance and assessment of their applications in petroleum geoscience.
G690: "Paleoclimatology" Exploration of the principles and application of tools used to measure, assess, interpret, and explain patterns and processes of climate change throughout Earth history.
Projects representative of opportunities for research, including collaborative activities, which are, or have been, supported by NSF, JOI/USSSP and other funding agencies:
Other current and exploratory projects include several collaborative ventures with colleagues at Indiana University, Lisa Pratt, Arndt Schimmelmann, and Peter Sauer, and their students and post-docs.
Roles on major committees within the Department and University, and aspects of professional service: