Find Academic Supervisors

Michael CardiffView profile

Professor

• Hydrogeology
• Aquifer Heterogeneity
• Geothermal Reservoirs
• +3 more

Michael Cardiff is a Professor and Department Chair at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. His research focuses on characterizing aquifer heterogeneity to improve predictions of groundwater flow, transport, and reactions. He employs multi-physics numerical modeling, Bayesian inference, optimization methods, and advanced sensors to address hydrogeologic challenges. His projects include PoroTomo (DOE-funded geothermal reservoir modeling), fracture flow analysis for the Wisconsin DNR, and nitrate monitoring in agricultural settings. He teaches courses such as Hydrogeology (GEOSCI/GLE 627), MATLAB for Geoscientists (GEOSCI/GLE 875), Groundwater Flow Modeling (GEOSCI/GLE 724), Environmental Geology (GEOSCI/GLE 106), and Geophysical Inverse Modeling (GEOSCI/GLE 793), often cross-listed with Geological Engineering programs. Current graduate advisees include Rachel Breunig, G. Graham, Samantha Kershner, and Collin Roland. His research spans theoretical, field, and computational approaches to subsurface processes.

Laurel GoodwinView profile

Professor

• Fault Mechanics
• Earthquake Recurrence
• Shear Zone Dynamics
• +4 more

Laurel Goodwin is a Professor in the Department of Geology at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Her research investigates crustal deformation processes across brittle-ductile transitions, employing field mapping, microstructural analysis, isotopic dating, and petrological methods to understand fault mechanics, earthquake recurrence, and fluid-rock interactions in shear zones. Her research focuses on: Mechanics of faulting and earthquake recurrence quantification Strain localization and partitioning in major crustal shear systems Timing and thermal history of deformation in fault zones Petrophysical controls on deformation mechanisms and permeability Fluid-fault interactions and fabric development in brittle-ductile systems Her publications (2019-2024) predominantly explore fault zone hydromechanics, fracture healing processes, and geochemical signatures of fluid flow. Research methodologies integrate field studies with advanced analytical techniques including U-Th dating, electron backscatter diffraction, and discrete fracture network modeling to quantify deformation processes across temporal and spatial scales. Current graduate advisees include Matthew Aleksey and Kaitlyn Crouch.

Basil TikoffView profile

Professor

• Structural Geology
• Tectonics
• Geophysics
• +7 more

Basil Tikoff is a Professor in the Department of Geoscience at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. His research focuses on quantitative field geology, structural geology, and tectonics, particularly on deformation processes in Earth's lithosphere, shear zones, and magmatic systems. He uses diverse tools including field mapping, kinematic modeling, paleomagnetism, and gravity surveys. Tikoff is also a leader in developing digital geoscience data systems like StraboSpot and integrates cognitive science principles to improve geological education and field methodologies. Current research projects include studying granite emplacement, magmatic arc processes, strike-slip tectonism, and the tectonics of the western U.S., Central America, and the early Earth. He emphasizes extracting rheological insights from natural deformation and investigates human cognition in spatial thinking through collaborations with cognitive scientists. Tikoff teaches courses on geological structures, tectonics, and the history of geology. His students include Kenz Carlton, Deanna Flores, Kyrsten Johnston, Ellen Nelson, and Claire Ruggles. He collaborates on grants addressing mantle deformation, magmatic systems, and geoscience education. Tikoff’s work on the StraboSpot ecosystem has advanced community-driven data collection and sharing, enhancing reproducibility in geological research. His contributions span both technical and pedagogical domains, bridging field geology with modern digital tools and cognitive science. Recent projects include gravity surveys at Kīlauea volcano, geophysical studies in the Pilbara Craton, and investigations into fluid dynamics in fracture systems of the Paradox Basin.

Shan ZhouView profile

Assistant Professor

• Nanoscience
• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science
• +4 more

Dr. Shan Zhou is an Assistant Professor in Nanoscience and Biomedical Engineering at the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. He earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry from Georgia Institute of Technology (2018) and a B.S. in Chemistry from University of Science and Technology of China (2014). His postdoctoral research at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign (2018–2022) focused on materials science and engineering. Dr. Zhou’s research integrates nanoscience, biomedical engineering, and analytical chemistry to develop advanced in situ characterization techniques for studying materials interfaces. His lab, the Materials-Interfaces Imaging and Design Laboratory (MIDL), specializes in nanoparticle synthesis, 2D materials, plasmonic metamaterials, and regioselective surface chemistry. Key projects include designing high-entropy alloy nanocrystals for catalysis and developing sub-nanometer resolution imaging tools for energy and biomedical applications. His work emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to address challenges in energy conversion, biomedicine, and material functionality. He actively recruits undergraduate and graduate students to advance research in nanomaterials and electrochemical systems.

Kelli McCormickView profile

Senior Lecturer

• Geology
• Geochemistry
• Structural Geology
• +3 more

Kelli McCormick is a Senior Lecturer at South Dakota School of Mines & Technology (SDSMT), specializing in geology with a focus on structural geology, magmatic systems, and mineralization processes. Her research integrates field observations, geochemical analysis, and 3D modeling to study tectonic settings and ore deposits. McCormick holds a Ph.D. from Johns Hopkins University, following M.A. and M.S. degrees from Johns Hopkins and the University of New Mexico, respectively, and a B.S. from Idaho State University. Education: Ph.D. in Geological Sciences, Johns Hopkins University M.A. in Geological Sciences, Johns Hopkins University M.S. in Geology, University of New Mexico B.S. in Geology, Idaho State University Research Interests: Her work emphasizes crystallization ages of igneous rocks, structural controls on mineralization, and the application of geophysical methods to explore subsurface geology. She has conducted extensive studies on the Midcontinent Rift System in South Dakota and the Sudbury Structure in Ontario, Canada. McCormick’s contributions include 3D modeling of ore deposits and geochemical analysis of volcanic and impact-related rocks. Articles Trends: Her publications span structural interpretation of mineralized systems, U-Pb dating of magmatic intrusions, and regional geologic mapping. Recent work focuses on refining crystallization ages of diabase sills and linking them to broader tectonic events. Labs/Teams: Active in SDSMT’s geology department, contributing to field-based and analytical research projects in collaboration with industry and academic partners.

Kevin T. ShanleyView profile

Associate Professor

• Fluid Dynamics
• Environmental Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• +4 more

Dr. Kevin T. Shanley is an Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Engineering Programs at SUNY New Paltz. He holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Clarkson University (2009). His academic roles include leadership in the School of Science & Engineering and teaching courses such as Finite Element Analysis, Thermodynamics, and Fluid Mechanics. Dr. Shanley's research focuses on fluid dynamics and environmental engineering, particularly applying diffusiophoresis to microplastic filtration in water systems. He has collaborated with industry (e.g., Splitrock Filter Systems LLC) to redesign filtration systems for practical applications like countertop units. His expertise in multiphase flows and fluid-structure interactions has led to patented technologies and advancements in foamed cement manufacturing, fracture hydraulics, and nasal airflow modeling. He has held notable professional roles, including ORISE Faculty Research Fellow at the U.S. Department of Energy and a Research Assistant at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory. Awards include ASME Early Career Leadership (2012–2013), Rolls-Royce Professional Leadership (2012–2013), and an EPA STAR Fellowship (2006–2009). His work spans academic, industrial, and government collaborations, emphasizing innovation in energy, environmental, and biomedical systems. Current projects include student-led investigations into microplastic filtration efficiency via automated control systems, genetic algorithm optimization, and particulate quantification methods. Future work explores channel parameter impacts on filtration systems and expanding applications of diffusiophoretic principles. Dr. Shanley is an active member of the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE) and American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), contributing to pedagogical and technical advancements in engineering education.

Tristan J AshcroftView profile

Visiting Assistant Professor

• Structural Geology
• Tectonics
• Paleozoic Deformation
• +2 more

Tristan J. Ashcroft is a Visiting Assistant Professor teaching geology and earth sciences in the Department of Environmental Studies at Ursinus College. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Nevada, MS from University of Albany, and BA from Juniata College. During summers, he conducts geological fieldwork west of the Rocky Mountains. Dr. Ashcroft's research focuses on structural geology and tectonics, with particular emphasis on late Paleozoic and early Mesozoic deformation in eastern Nevada. His investigations examine magmatic-tectonic relationships in collisional systems and deformation patterns in sedimentary basins. His publications analyze tectonic processes in Nevada's Adobe Range and magmatic systems in convergent margins. Teaching responsibilities include Geology: The Earth Around Us, Fueling Society, and Environmental Applications of GIS.

Cody MasonView profile

Associate Professor

• Sedimentary Geology
• Tectonics
• Climate Change
• +3 more

Dr. Cody Mason is an Associate Professor of Geology at the University of West Georgia, affiliated with the School of Field Investigations and Experimental Sciences within the Dr. Perry College of Mathematics, Computing, and Sciences. His research focuses on sedimentary systems, tectonic influences, and climate effects, particularly in mountain-building processes, river dynamics, and marine environments. He actively mentors undergraduate research projects in sedimentology and tectonics. Dr. Mason’s work integrates field observations, geochronology, and geochemical analyses to explore how tectonic activity and climate shape Earth’s surface. Recent studies include Amazon Fan sedimentation linked to Andean uplift, Cretaceous East Asian aridification, and microplastic transport in rivers. His courses span introductory geosciences to advanced sedimentation and coastal geology. Research Themes: Sedimentary Records, Tectonic Denudation, Climate-Driven Erosion, Anthropogenic Impacts Key Techniques: Detrital Zircon U-Pb Dating, Cosmogenic Nuclides, Provenance Analysis Field Sites: Amazon Basin, California Ranges, Mississippi River, Savannah River Publications highlight interdisciplinary approaches to unraveling long-term landscape evolution and human-environment interactions. Despite extensive research output, no specific awards are listed, though his work contributes significantly to sedimentary geology and tectonics.

Behnam AskarianView profile

Assistant Professor

• Renewable Energy
• Machine Learning
• Image/Signal Processing
• +3 more

Dr. Behnam Askarian is an Assistant Professor of Electrical Engineering at West Texas A&M University's College of Engineering, joining in Fall 2021. He holds a B.S. and first M.S. in Electrical Engineering from Shiraz University (Iran), followed by a second M.S. and Ph.D. from Texas Tech University (2020 and 2021, respectively). His research focuses on renewable energy, machine learning, biomedical engineering, IoT, and image/signal processing , with notable contributions to smartphone-based diagnostic tools for eye diseases and arrhythmia detection. He has authored two books on multimedia and learning technologies. **Education**: B.S. & M.S. in Electrical Engineering, Shiraz University, Iran M.S. & Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Texas Tech University **Research Highlights**: Dr. Askarian’s work bridges engineering and healthcare, particularly in developing affordable diagnostic tools. His IoT-enabled solutions address challenges in telemedicine, such as keratoconus detection via smartphones and arrhythmia monitoring. He also explores AI-driven precision agriculture and sustainable energy systems. Two patents reflect his innovations in smartphone-integrated medical sensors. **Teaching**: He teaches core electrical engineering courses, including Digital Design, Wind Energy Turbines, and Linear Integrated Circuits , emphasizing hands-on learning in electronics and renewable energy. **Labs & Collaborations**: Affiliated with the College’s engineering research groups, including the ECORE Lab and Human-Machine Teaming Laboratory, where he contributes to interdisciplinary projects in robotics and sensor networks.

Katrina TwingView profile

Professor

• Microbial Ecology
• Environmental Microbiology
• Geomicrobiology
• +6 more

Dr. Katrina Twing is a Professor in the Department of Microbiology at Weber State University (WSU), within the College of Science. She holds a Ph.D. from Michigan State University, an M.S. from the University of Delaware, and a B.A. from Clark University. Her research focuses on understanding microbial interactions in extreme environments, particularly hydrothermal vents, serpentinizing systems, and high pH ecosystems. She employs next-generation sequencing and bioinformatics to study microbial ecology and environmental adaptations. Dr. Twing’s teaching philosophy emphasizes active learning and research mentorship, guiding students toward recognizing the excitement of scientific discovery. She teaches courses such as MICR 1113 (Intro to Microbiology), MICR 1153 (Public Health), MICR 3154 (Microbial Ecology), and MICR 3753/GEO 3753 (Geomicrobiology). Her lab, the Twing Environmental Microbiology Lab, explores projects like 'Rock-Powered Life' (microbial utilization of water-rock reactions) and antibiotic resistance in local Utah soils. She collaborates on studies of high-pH hydrothermal vents (e.g., Lost City and Strýtan) to understand early Earth life origins. Her research has been published in journals like Frontiers in Microbiology , Applied and Environmental Microbiology , and Scientific Drilling . She advises undergraduate researchers at WSU and contributes to interdisciplinary environmental science initiatives. Her work bridges geology, microbiology, and bioinformatics to address global challenges like antimicrobial resistance and environmental contamination.

Richard ChaconView profile

Professor

• Human Behavioral Ecology
• Subsistence Strategies
• Natural Resource Conservation
• +7 more

Richard Chacon is a Professor of Anthropology in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology at Winthrop University's College of Arts and Sciences. He holds a Ph.D. in Anthropology from the University of California-Santa Barbara and conducts extensive ethnographic research across the Americas, including work with the Yanomamö, Yora, and Achuar peoples. His research focuses on human behavioral ecology, subsistence strategies, warfare, ritual violence, ethnohistory, and the development of social complexity. He has special expertise in indigenous belief systems, natural resource conservation, and the impacts of globalization on native communities. Chacon's publications demonstrate a consistent focus on conflict, domination, and cultural adaptation in indigenous societies, with geographical emphasis on Latin America and the Andes. His recent works explore ritual violence, supernatural guardianship, and the environmental impacts of traditional practices. He has held visiting positions at the University of Gothenburg, Russian State University for the Humanities, and University of Costa Rica, and serves as editor for Springer's Anthropology and Ethics Series.

Stéphane PerroutyView profile

Associate Professor

• Structural Geology
• Mineralogy
• Lithogeochemistry
• +4 more

Stéphane Perrouty is an Associate Professor of Precambrian Geology at Laurentian University's Harquail School of Earth Sciences since 2018. His research focuses on structural geology, mineralogy, lithogeochemistry, and applied geophysics to understand tectonic processes linked to Precambrian ore deposits. He leads multidisciplinary projects in Canada and West Africa, including collaborations with NSERC-CMIC, AMIRA West Africa, and Metal Earth initiatives. Education: PhD (2012, University of Toulouse), Postdoc (2013-2017, Western University). Courses taught: Precambrian Geology (GEOL 4016) and Field Geology (GEOL 3006). Research emphasizes 3D modeling of Precambrian regions to visualize structural-mineralized interactions. Key themes include gold mineralization in greenstone belts (e.g., Canadian Malartic, Ashanti Belt) and crustal-scale deformation zones. His work integrates geophysical, geochemical, and mineralogical data for mineral exploration. Recent publications highlight advancements in geophysical inversion techniques, machine learning applications, and structural controls on gold deposits. His 2022 William Harvey Gross Award recognizes contributions to mineral exploration. Advises multiple PhD/MSc/BSc students on projects like gold prospectivity in Wabigoon Subprovince and structural analysis of deformation zones. Collaborates on grants from NSERC, AMIRA, and industry partners. Labs/teams: Active in the Exploration Footprints Network and Metal Earth project, focusing on 4D mineral system reconstructions.

• Carbonate Sedimentology
• Invertebrate Paleontology
• Carbonate-hosted Pb-Zn Deposits
• +7 more

Dr. Elizabeth C. Turner is a Professor in the Department of Earth Sciences at Laurentian University, where she has been teaching and conducting research since 2005. Prior to this position, she worked as a Research Scientist at the Canada-Nunavut Geoscience Office in Iqaluit (2001-2005) and completed post-doctoral fellowships at the University of Chicago and University of Alberta (2000-2001). She holds a PhD from Queen's University (1999), a BSc in Geology (1991), and a BA in Languages (1988), all from the University of Toronto. Dr. Turner is a field-based geologist with over 30 years of research experience in remote parts of Canada's northern territories. Her research focuses on the tectonostratigraphic evolution of Proterozoic and Paleozoic sedimentary basins in northern Canada, with particular emphasis on carbonate sedimentology, stratigraphy, and geochemistry. She investigates carbonate-hosted metal deposits, shale basins, Proterozoic and Paleozoic reefs and microbialites, and the early evolution of animals. Her work spans over 1 billion years of Earth history, connecting geological processes to economic mineral potential. Dr. Turner's recent publications reveal a strong focus on Precambrian paleobiology, with groundbreaking work on early fungi and animal fossils in Arctic Canada. Her research also maintains a strong emphasis on carbonate-hosted base metal deposits, particularly zinc and copper mineralization in the Nanisivik district and Kipushi deposit. She employs a multidisciplinary approach combining sedimentology, geochemistry, and tectonic analysis to understand ancient depositional environments and their metallogenic potential. Among her notable recognitions are the 2020 Geological Association of Canada Howard Street Robinson Medal for excellence in Precambrian geology and the 2016 NSERC Discovery Grant and Accelerator Supplement, making her only the second professor in Laurentian University's history to receive this prestigious award. She also received the Canadian Journal of Earth Sciences Best Paper award in 2010 and was honored with an honorable mention in PALAIOS in 2001. Dr. Turner actively mentors graduate students, currently supervising multiple PhD and MSc candidates working on projects related to carbonate sedimentology, ore deposit formation, and Precambrian paleobiology. Her students conduct field research in Canada's North and the Democratic Republic of Congo, investigating topics ranging from Cambrian stratigraphy to copper mineralization processes.

Benzhong ZhaoView profile

Associate Professor

• Climate Change Mitigation
• Renewable Energy
• Water Security
• +9 more

Benzhong (Robin) Zhao is an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at McMaster University. He holds a BASc from the University of Waterloo and SM/PhD degrees from MIT. His research focuses on multiphase flow in porous media, with applications to climate change mitigation (e.g., geological CO2 storage) and adaptation (e.g., water security under climate change). He teaches courses such as CIV ENG 708 (Computational & Experimental Methods for Flow in Porous Materials) and CIVENG 2O04 (Fluid Mechanics). His lab employs advanced imaging techniques (microscopy, synchrotron X-ray, neutron imaging) to study subsurface energy systems and hydrologic processes. Recent work includes developing frameworks for gigaton-scale CO2 storage in Alberta oil sands and evaluating mask effectiveness for source control during pandemics. Advising includes 1-2 funded graduate students annually and undergraduate researchers. Notable alumni include postdocs (e.g., Daniel Hallack, Tian Lan) and PhD graduates (e.g., Mahtab Masouminia, Ashkan Irannezhad). The Zhao Lab collaborates internationally, hosting scholars like Prof. Ruben Juanes (MIT), and emphasizes interdisciplinary research spanning energy, environment, and micro-nano systems.

Adam HumeniukView profile

Assistant Professor

• Operator Algebras
• Operator Theory
• Non-Selfadjoint Operator Algebras
• +3 more

Adam Humeniuk is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mathematics & Computing at Mount Royal University. He holds a PhD in Pure Mathematics from the University of Waterloo (2022), preceded by an MMath (2018) and a BSc in Physics (2015) and Pure Mathematics (2017) from the University of Calgary. His research focuses on operator algebras, noncommutative convexity theory, and C*-envelopes. He actively supervises undergraduate research projects and teaches courses in calculus, linear algebra, and data science. He previously held postdoctoral and teaching roles at MacEwan University, the University of Alberta, and the University of Waterloo. Research interests include non-selfadjoint operator algebras, matrix convex functions, and their applications to dynamics and convexity. He emphasizes undergraduate research mentorship, with current openings for Spring/Summer 2025 projects in matrix convex functions and operator algebras. Education: PhD – Pure Mathematics, University of Waterloo (2018–2022) MMath – Pure Mathematics, University of Waterloo (2017–2018) BSc Hons – Pure Mathematics (After Degree), University of Calgary (2015–2017) BSc Hons – Physics, University of Calgary (2011–2015) Adam is committed to fostering inclusive academic environments and supports student accommodations. Outside academia, he enjoys rock climbing, hiking, strength training, and music.