Katie Donnelly uses the composition of volcanic rocks to understand the chemical evolution of the planet and dynamics of the Earth’s mantle. Professor Donnelly has applied her experience in basic scientific research to academic study, government policy as an advisor to key members of the U.S. House of Representatives, and climate and clean energy initiatives through work at private foundations and other non-profit organizations. Professor Donnelly earned a Ph.D. in Earth and Environmental Sciences from Columbia University, a M.Sc. in Geological Sciences from the University of Otago in New Zealand as a Fulbright Fellow, and a B.S. in Earth Sciences from Trinity University. 

Professor Donnelly views teaching as a dynamic process through which both students and professors learn, and where understanding means being able to apply basic scientific concepts to real world problems. She has experience in both Natural Science and Social Science Departments and teaches the first year Empirical Analysis and Complex Systems Cornerstone courses.