Jonathan O. Sharp

Jonathan O. Sharp is a Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the Colorado School of Mines, where he also serves as the Director of the Hydrologic Science and Engineering (HSE) Program. His work bridges environmental engineering, hydrology, and geomicrobiology, focusing on nature-inspired solutions for water treatment and biogeochemical cycling in both engineered and natural systems.

Education:

• Postdoc, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland (2006–2008)
• PhD, Civil & Environmental Engineering, UC Berkeley (2006)
• MS, Civil & Environmental Engineering, UC Berkeley (2001)
• BA, Geosciences, Princeton University (1997)

Professor Sharp’s research centers on microbial processes affecting water quality, particularly in treatment wetlands, biofiltration, and bioremediation systems. His group employs molecular microbiology, geochemistry, and environmental engineering to study contaminant attenuation, microbial community dynamics, and ecosystem resilience under stress such as drought or pollution. A key theme is leveraging natural processes for sustainable water reuse and impaired water treatment.

His recent publications highlight interdisciplinary work in engineered wetlands, nitrogen cycling, microbial mats, and the impact of forest disturbances on biogeochemistry. Themes include microbial adaptation, system resilience, and innovative treatment technologies integrating renewable energy.

Scientific Awards:

• Colorado School of Mines Excellence in Research Award (2019)
• Kavli Fellow of the National Academy of Science (2018)
• Blaustein Visiting Professorship at Stanford University (2018)
• Emerging Investigator, Environ. Science: Processes and Impacts (2014)
• NSF CAREER Award (2011)
• UC Toxic Substances Research Fellowship (2000–2002)
• Joseph R. Hyde Graduate Fellowship (1999–2000)

Professor Sharp advises a research group involved in multiple projects related to water sustainability and biogeochemical cycling. His work has been supported by grants from the National Science Foundation and other agencies, though specific grants are not listed in the text. He teaches undergraduate and graduate courses such as Environmental Geomicrobiology and Environmental Engineering Field Sessions, emphasizing inquiry-based and place-based learning.

His research is conducted through the Hydrologic Science and Engineering Program and the Civil and Environmental Engineering Program at Mines, with affiliations to the ReNUWIt ERC, a national center focused on revolutionizing urban water sustainability.