Joe Allen is professor of geology at Concord University where he has taught since 1998. He has served as chairman of the Division of Natural Sciences since 2002 and is responsible for administration of three academic departments, including biology, physical sciences, and mathematics and computer science. He has previously served as chairman of the Department of Physical Sciences.

Dr. Allen developed and implemented Concord's geology curriculum and summer field course in the Rockies. He founded the Bachelor of Science degree in environmental geosciences in 2004, which is one of only three undergraduate geology degree programs in the state. He also established the Concord University microanalysis laboratory consisting of West Virginia's only electron microprobe, and facilities for micro-X-ray fluorescence, Raman spectroscopy, and thin-section preparation. As an advocate for undergraduate research, he founded the Concord University Faculty-Student Research Program with a grant from the West Virginia Research Trust Fund; the state's "Bucks for Brains" program.

Dr. Allen holds a B.S. degree in geological sciences from Michigan State University, an M.S. degree in geology from East Carolina University, and a Ph.D. in geological sciences from the University of Kentucky. He was a post-doctoral researcher at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Dr. Allen's research interests are primarily in structural geology and currently center on understanding the deep seismogenic structure of exhumed fault zones as recorded by frictional melts (pseudotachylyte). He is also interested in the structure of reactivated fault zones in basement and cover rocks. His work has been supported by grants from NSF, ACS-PRF, and other sources. Numerous undergraduates have participated in his research program in the field and laboratory, and the results have been presented at national and regional scientific conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals. Excellent opportunities exist for future undergraduate projects.