CLAIR OSSIAN

Clair Russell Ossian is an Emeritus Professor of Geology at Tarrant County College, Hurst, Texas. His career includes nearly twenty years in geological research as a paleontologist and sedimentologist, experiencing many challenges world wide while working in the petroleum industry, retiring as Principal Research Geologist from ARCO Oil and Gas Co. Field research during that time involved projects in diverse settings, including Alaska, Canada, China, Indonesia, Norway, Africa and numerous projects within the rest of the United States.

Before, during and after that phase of his career, he has continued to teach Physical Geology, Historical Geology, Environmental Geology and Field Courses. Dr. Ossian holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology from the University of Nebraska (Lincoln), a Master of Science degree from Michigan State University, and a Doctor of Philosophy from The University of Texas (Austin). Both graduate degrees are in geology and paleontology.

Professor Ossian has published numerous papers on sedimentology, vertebrate paleontology, invertebrate paleontology and his current research is centered on the geology of Egypt. His most recent research involved providing geological support for an archaeological excavation in the Egyptian delta.

He is a member of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the Society of Sigma XI, the American Research Center in Egypt (ARCE), the Egyptian Exploration Society and is a Certified Geologist with the American Association of Petroleum Geologists.

A long time resident of north Texas, he and his wife have raised two children, a son and a daughter. They currently share their home with a pair of Chinese chowchow dogs. Hobbies include gardening, raising Japanese koi fish, growing water lilies, carpentry, photography and writing. Travel continues to be a great pleasure for them, proving many opportunities for new experiences . . . and new geological insights.