My recent research has focused on geoscience education, especially assessing the efficacy of pedagogic tools ranging from analog models of Earth systems to the integration of smart technology and augmented reality in learning experiences. I have a passion for finding creative ways to teach and communicate the importance of geology – its application in everyday life, for inspiring students to explore their environment, and for encouraging their natural awe and respect for the Earth. I have a broad range of geologic interests ranging from broad-scale landscape evolution and sustainability to public science communication and wine and terroir. I also enjoy knitting geological representations.

• PhD in Geomorphology & Geoscience Education, Utah State University, 2015
• MS in Geological Engineering (Mineral & Energy Exploration), Queen's University, Canada, 2005
• BS in Geological Engineering (Mineral & Energy Exploration), Queen's University, Canada, 2003

• Bursztyn, N., D’Antonio, A., and Masters, B., 2025. Using Immersive Virtual Reality to Measure Strike and Dip and Teach Geologic Mapping Concepts: Earth Systems, Science, and Society (). 10.1144/esss2024-008
• Jackson, D., Kaveh, H., Victoria, J., Walker, A., and Bursztyn, N., 2019. Integrating an augmented reality sandbox challenge activity into a large-enrollment introductory geoscience lab for nonmajors produces no learning gains: Journal of Geoscience Education, 67(3):237-248, doi:10.1080/10899995.2019.1583786
• Bursztyn, N., Walker, A., Shelton, B., and Pederson, J., 2017. Assessment of student learning using augmented reality Grand Canyon field trips for mobile smart-devices: Geosphere, 13(2):1–9, doi:10.1130/GES01404.1