Elizabeth Cottrell: From Collecting Rocks to Curating the National Rock Collection

Elizabeth Cottrell's journey from a young rock and flower collector to a prominent research geologist and curator at the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of Natural History is a testament to her passion for geology and the importance of mentorship. Growing up, Cottrell's curiosity led her to explore various scientific fields, eventually resulting in her choosing geology as her major at Brown University.

Her open curriculum allowed her to delve into diverse scientific avenues, including a captivating class on Mars, Moon, and the Earth, which sparked her interest in geology.

Cottrell sought out a mentor in the geology department, who introduced her to the possibilities of research in her field. Her guidance led Cottrell to pursue graduate studies at Columbia University and become a Fulbright Scholar at the Institute de Physique du Globe de Paris in France. During her time in Paris, she became fluent in French and maintained long-lasting international and geological connections that continue to benefit her work today.

One of the world's largest geological collections, the National Rock Collection, features hundreds of thousands of specimens available for scientific use and study. Cottrell emphasizes the value of national collections, stating that "you could study what's in the national collection for the rest of your career and never run out of research questions or interesting things to study."

When asked about her recommended book, movie, or piece of media for young scientists, Cottrell suggests "The Fifth Season" by N. K. Jemisin. The Hugo Award-winning science fiction novel delves into geological processes from a unique perspective, resonating with many geologists who experience the profound connection between the Earth and its inhabitants.

Cottrell continues to explore the natural world outside of her professional life, spending time with her family camping and backpacking in various landscapes. Her dedication to geology and mentorship remains as strong as ever, inspiring young scientists to seek guidance and immerse themselves in the wonders of the natural world.