Stanley Awramik
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 Earth Science course and the instrumental music program in the public schools, I was torn between music and geology for college. I chose geology (it seemed easier) and went to Boston University. Although a geology major, I played French horn in the orchestra. As the passion for fossils and the history of life developed, I had to abandon the horn (it's still in my closet). I went on to Harvard for my PhD where my passion for ancient life developed further. It was while I was a graduate student that I was given the opportunity to travel to remote regions, such as southern and western Australia, NW Kenya, and South Africa. Travel and field work have been loves of mine ever since. I came to UCSB right after Harvard, 32 years ago. It has been a great 32 years. The travel bug is shared by my wife and daughter, and we've added SCUBA diving to our travels. Oh, by the way, my wife is a cellist and my daughter plans to go to college for piano performance. Music is back in my life (but I don't have to practice).
Research Interests
My research involves the early history of life on Earth. I focus on peculiar reef-like, fossil buildups called stromatolites that are produced by bacteria. These can be found in rocks as old as 3.5 billion years old and they are also forming in some environments today. The immensity of this time range, the changes that have occurred in these fossils, and the changes in the Earth system over time are what capture my attention. Right now I'm studying ancient examples in Death Valley, Wyoming, and the Pilbara of northwestern Australia, and modern stromatolites forming in Shark Bay (Western Australia), Anza Borrego, and in the lab.
Teaching Style
I try to bring as much enthusiasm as possible into my teaching. Granted, some subject matter just doesn't seem to respond to my enthusiasm. General education courses in the sciences are a particular interest of mine. I want our students to be able to think critically and appreciate the science in their everyday lives. As the world becomes more complex, we need to seek greater understanding through knowledge. Learning can be fun, but it is also a lot of hard work.
Idea of a Good Time
My idea of fun is camping and hiking in remote regions of Western Australia, miles away from the nearest person. The solitude is magical.
Most Important Thing to Learn at College
I think one of the most important things to learn in college is how to learn. Along with this, improve your ability to think critically, ask questions, develop an intellectual curiosity, and acquire a passion for learning,
Advice for New Students at UCSB?
Your college years are going to be special years. Take full advantage of the many opportunities UCSB provides. Get involved with your education and get involved with the community.
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