Amy Wagner

Dr. Amy Wagner serves as an Assistant Professor in the Geology Department at California State University, Sacramento. With a profound interest in climate change, her research delves into both natural and anthropogenic climate variability throughout the Holocene epoch. As an accomplished isotope geochemist and paleoceanographer, Dr. Wagner focuses on understanding oceanographic changes that have occurred over thousands of years due to climate shifts. Her research methodology involves the analysis of stable isotopes and trace elements found in marine carbonates. By examining these elements, Dr. Wagner is able to reconstruct the environmental conditions under which marine organisms thrived during periods of rapid global change in the Holocene. This work is crucial for predicting how marine environments might respond to future climate changes, offering insights that are vital for environmental conservation and policy-making. In addition to her work on oceanographic changes, Dr. Wagner also investigates the hydrological dynamics of the high Sierra mountain meadows. By analyzing water isotopes, she aims to discern whether the water stored in these meadows primarily originates from surface runoff or groundwater. This research is essential for understanding water resource management in these ecologically sensitive areas. Dr. Wagner's contributions to the field of geochemistry and paleoclimatology are significant, as they provide a deeper understanding of past climate events and their implications for future environmental changes. Her work not only advances scientific knowledge but also informs strategies for mitigating the impacts of climate change. Through her research, Dr. Wagner continues to inspire students and colleagues alike, fostering a greater appreciation for the complexities of Earth's climate systems.