Eric J. Kappus, Ph.D.  is a geoscientist, educator, and research paleontologist with more than two decades of experience spanning geological consulting, environmental remediation, geoscience education, and public outreach. He earned a Ph.D. and M.S. in Geological Sciences from The University of Texas at El Paso, with research focused on regional soil geochemistry, ichnology, and geoscience education, and holds a B.S. in Outdoor Education with a minor in Environmental Biology. Dr. Kappus has served as a research paleontologist with the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science since 2003 and has played a leading role in the discovery, development, and interpretation of the Cerro de Cristo Rey dinosaur track sites. His work bridges academic research, applied environmental projects, and community-based education, with appointments ranging from university teaching and graduate program development to advisory roles with federal agencies, municipalities, and nonprofit organizations. He has authored and co-authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations and is widely recognized for his contributions to geoscience education, conservation, and public engagement in the U.S.–Mexico border region.