Tell us about your research project and why it is important to you.
My research focuses on understanding the spatial and temporal relationships of the Jurassic rocks of Eastern and Southern Mexico. I am studying the sedimentary rocks of the Early Jurassic to analyze the stratigraphy and the evolution of the sedimentary system in basins that existed in what is now Hidalgo and Chiapas. My study aims to help improve our understanding of the tectonic evolution of Eastern Mexico during the disintegration of the super-continent Pangea, prior to the opening of the Gulf of Mexico.
My project is relevant due to the great importance of the stratigraphic record in Mexico within the tectonic evolution of North America. Additionally, the stratigraphy and structure of Early Jurassic rocks is vital for the reconstruction of sedimentary basins, depositional environments, and sediment delivery systems prior to the formation of the important hydrocarbon source rocks of the Late Jurassic. Therefore, such knowledge is crucial for the future exploration, characterization, and exploitation of hydrocarbons in the western margin of the Gulf of Mexico.
Have you presented or published your research anywhere? Tell us about the experience.
Yes, I have had the pleasant experience of presenting the results of my project in person at international conferences organized by the GSA (Geological Society of America) and the AAPG (American Association of Petroleum Geologists). At these conferences, I had the pleasure of meeting brilliant people and projects that enriched me academically and professionally. In the very near future, I will publish my findings in an indexed journal.
What would you say is something interesting about your area of study that most people do not know?
My research project involves extracting micrometric zircon crystals from rocks in order to date them according to the amounts of uranium and lead they contain. This dating technique is possible using lasers that vaporize minerals which are subsequently excited with plasma at temperatures hotter than the sun.
Tell us about your academic or professional collaborations with Mexico.
Through this project I have had the pleasure of collaborating with my master's tutor and with professors and students from the UNAM Institute of Geology. This collaboration was crucial in order to carry out efficient field campaigns in Mexico and to achieve an excellent exchange of ideas on Mexican tectonics. In addition, this cooperation has allowed students from the Institute of Geology to carry out research stays at the Jackson School of Geosciences, improving relations between the two institutes and allowing Mexican students to use innovative dating techniques.
What drew you to Texas and UT Austin?
The highly regarded and outstanding body of researchers at the Jackson School of Geosciences. The school has brilliant researchers in geological sciences, who are constantly developing cutting-edge projects in pure and applied geology. In the future, I hope to apply and share the innovative knowledge in Mexico and to be able to continue with the academic collaborations between UT Austin and UNAM.
What have been some good things you did not expect about Texas or UT Austin?
The exposure and exchange of ideas in such a friendly academic environment is something that I love. The Jackson School of Geosciences constantly organizes presentations where researchers from various parts of the world share the results of their projects. These presentations have allowed me to expand my knowledge and my academic network. The strong presence of international students allows a cultural exchange that I had never imagined.
What have been the biggest challenges of studying at UT Austin and living in the United States?
My biggest challenge at UT Austin was quickly adjusting to the academic system while at the same time trying to adapt my daily life to a different culture. The workload can become very demanding, and the ability to manage time is crucial. On the other hand, the hardest part of living in the United States is being away from my family and finding good Mexican food.
How has the support of ConTex and Conacyt impacted you?
The support of ConTex and Conacyt has been of immense importance and has made it possible for me to dedicate much of my time to my research project. Additionally, Olivia Mogollón and Paloma Perry (at ConTex) have been excellent advisors who have helped me tremendously with the planning and follow-up of my scholarship.
What kind of work do you hope to do in the future? How do you hope your research will benefit people in the United States and Mexico?
In the future, I hope to be a research professor in the field of regional tectonics. One of my main objectives is to teach at the bachelor's and master's levels in order to help prepare high-level scholars and professionals. In addition, I would love to be able to continue with my line of research developing knowledge about the tectonic evolution of North America.
What advice would you give to other Mexican students considering studying in Texas?
First, I would tell them not to second guess themselves because it is an excellent opportunity. The University of Texas System is exceptional and the support of ConTex and Conacyt greatly contributes to the experience of studying abroad. And second, I would let them know that there are many people willing to help students, both Mexican and foreign. It is an extraordinary experience.
