Find Academic Supervisors

• Speleothem Paleoclimatology
• Climate Change Processes
• Isotope Geochemistry
• +3 more

Ali Kimbrough is an Associate Research Fellow at the University of Wollongong's School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences (SEALS). Their work focuses on speleothem paleoclimatology to reconstruct tropical climate dynamics and address gaps in climate system understanding. Kimbrough holds a Ph.D. in Paleoclimatology from the Research School of Earth Sciences (2012–2017) and a B.S. in Earth Systems Science from the University of Arizona (2006–2011). Research Interests Kimbrough investigates tropical climate transitions using stalagmite geochemistry, particularly focusing on MIS transitions, glacial-interglacial rainfall variability, and human-environment interactions. They specialize in integrating proxy data with climate models to study atmospheric methane dynamics, vegetation productivity changes, and hydroclimate shifts across the Indo-Pacific region. Funding & Projects Recent grants include projects on Indo-Pacific ENSO variability (2024), pilot stalagmite research in Papua New Guinea (2023), and collaborations with Indonesian institutions. Equipment grants supported lab infrastructure for high-precision geochemical analysis. Outreach & Leadership Led guest seminars at Hasanuddin University and public lectures at State University of Padang (2023). Active in science communication through creative works like 'Stalagmite memories of ancient rainfall' (2022) and interdisciplinary projects combining folklore with scientific discovery (e.g., Comic books for education grant, 2023). Key Contributions Developed the SISALv3 global speleothem database (2024), published on Flores' aridification linked to Homo floresiensis extinction (2024), and validated rainfall reconstructions in Sulawesi using multi-proxy methods (2023–2024).

Reka Hajnalka FulopView profile

Research Fellow

• geomorphology
• cosmogenic nuclide-based methods
• Physical geography
• +3 more

Dr. Reka Hajnalka Fulop is a Research Fellow at the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) since 2015 and an Honorary Fellow at the University of Wollongong (UOW) since 2022. Her work focuses on cosmogenic nuclide-based methods to study geomorphological processes. Research Interests: Geomorphology, cosmogenic nuclides (10Be, 26Al, in situ C-14), tectonic-climate interactions, sediment dynamics, and method development for geochronology. Grants: UOW-ANSTO Collaborative Scheme (2015–2020), SMAH Small Project Grant (2015). Service & Leadership: Extensive peer-review experience (Geochronology, Earth Surface Dynamics, Quaternary Geochronology) and past membership in the British Society for Geomorphology Publications Committee (2008–2010). Supervision: Supervised two PhD students on topics including tectonic-climate interactions in the Tian Shan and sediment dynamics in arid Australia. Her recent publications explore rock art dating, erosion rates, Antarctic ice sheet stability, and cosmogenic isotope calibration. She specializes in quantifying surface process rates and sediment residence times using in situ radiocarbon and other cosmogenic tools.

Edward LandaView profile

Adjunct Professor

• Inorganic Contaminants
• Radioecology
• Environmental Geochemistry
• +4 more

Edward Landa is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Environmental Science & Technology at the University of Maryland, College Park. He is affiliated with the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. His research focuses on inorganic contaminants, radionuclides, and metals in terrestrial/aquatic systems, particularly uranium mill tailings, traffic-derived pollutants, and their ecological impacts. He also explores the interdisciplinary interface between soil science and the arts, emphasizing public education through creative mediums. Research interests include the biogeochemical cycling of contaminants, microbial interactions with minerals, and environmental remediation strategies. His work spans from nuclear waste management to urban stormwater systems, with a focus on human and ecosystem health implications. Notable studies address radon emanation from uranium tailings, tire leachate effects on mosquitoes, and utilization of recycled materials for metal removal. Publications emphasize contamination pathways, historical soil science developments, and innovative educational approaches. Articles reflect a blend of field studies, experimental analyses, and historical case studies, demonstrating a commitment to both applied and theoretical environmental science. Ongoing projects likely address emerging contaminants and interdisciplinary soil science communication. Dr. Landa’s career includes collaborations with international researchers and contributions to environmental policy discussions. His work bridges traditional scientific disciplines with cultural practices, fostering broader engagement with soil-related issues.

Mengqiang ZhuView profile

Associate Professor

• Environmental Geochemistry
• Soil Biogeochemistry
• Manganese Oxides
• +4 more

Mengqiang Zhu is an Associate Professor in the Department of Geology at the University of Maryland, College Park. He leads the Soil and Environmental Biogeochemistry Group, focusing on mineral-microbe-organic matter interactions in natural and engineered systems. His research integrates geochemical analyses, advanced spectroscopic techniques, and field/ laboratory experiments to understand biogeochemical processes controlling element cycling. Research interests include manganese oxide redox transformations, phosphorus and metal mobility in soils/sediments, and environmental remediation strategies. Notable work explores manganese(III) chemistry's role in contaminant dynamics and planetary geochemistry implications (e.g., Mars mineral formation). Key contributions include studies on mineral surface reactivity, dust geochemistry's role in ecosystem development, and molecular-level mechanisms of organic matter-mineral associations. His lab employs synchrotron-based XAS/XRD, FT-ICR MS, and operando spectroscopy to elucidate reaction pathways at atomic scales. Grants and collaborations focus on NSF-funded projects investigating critical zone processes and environmental sustainability. Advising emphasizes training students in cutting-edge analytical methods and interdisciplinary fieldwork.

Christopher GorskiView profile

Associate Professor

• Environmental Electrochemistry
• Energy Storage Materials
• Redox Processes
• +3 more

Christopher Gorski is an Associate Professor in the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department at Pennsylvania State University (PSU) . He leads the Institute of Energy and the Environment 's Awards Committee and focuses on electrochemical and spectroscopic methods to study environmental redox processes. His research aims to develop predictive models for pollutant fate and energy systems, with emphasis on mineral transformations, energy storage, and CO₂ capture technologies. Education and Affiliations : While formal education details are not explicitly stated, his roles suggest advanced training in environmental engineering and electrochemistry. He collaborates with PSU's College of Engineering and interdisciplinary research groups. Research Interests : Gorski's work integrates advanced materials (e.g., clay minerals, battery electrodes) and electrochemical systems to address energy sustainability challenges. Key areas include salinity gradient energy conversion, thermally regenerative batteries, and redox-active mineral dynamics. His lab develops novel membranes and electrode materials to enhance desalination and CO₂ capture efficiency. Publications Trends : Recent articles focus on TRAB performance optimization, electrochemical carbon capture, and iron oxide reactivity. Studies emphasize practical applications like waste heat conversion and low-energy desalination. Awards : NSF CAREER Award (2018), IEE Recognition (2024/2023/2020), and Excellence in Review (2018). Grants : Seed funding from IEE and RISE for projects on CO₂ capture and salinity energy. Labs/Teams : Collaborates with PSU's Electrochemical Energy Group and membrane technology researchers. Works with industry partners to commercialize low-cost energy storage solutions.

• Environmental Hydraulics
• Water and Wastewater Treatment Processes
• Fluid Mechanics
• +3 more

Patrick Purcell is an Associate Professor in the School of Civil Engineering at University College Dublin. He holds academic roles such as Module Coordinator for courses like 'Water & Wastewater Treatment' and 'Construction Practice'. His research focuses on environmental hydraulics, water treatment processes, and fluid mechanics. He has contributed to over 100 publications, with recent work addressing hybrid academic advising models, Fenton process optimization for wastewater treatment, and sediment dynamics in African wetlands. Purcell has led projects on mitigating motorway construction impacts on aquatic ecosystems and advised on infrastructure development in Ireland. He served on accreditation panels for engineering programs and contributed to EU-funded research on wastewater management. Education: Bachelor of Engineering (BE), University College Dublin Master of Engineering Science (MEngSc), University College Dublin Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), University College Dublin Research Interests: Purcell’s work integrates laboratory and field studies to address challenges in water quality, sustainable infrastructure, and environmental engineering. Key areas include advanced oxidation processes for contaminant removal, sediment management in wetlands, and the ecological impacts of road construction. His studies often apply statistical optimization techniques like Box-Behnken design to refine treatment methodologies. Articles Trends: Recent publications emphasize Fenton-based wastewater treatment, sedimentation analysis, and urban water governance. He combines experimental methods with computational modeling to evaluate processes like photocatalytic degradation and linear reservoir analogs for flood control. Professional Activities: Former Chairman of the Water and Environmental Engineering section of the Institution of Engineers of Ireland Member of accreditation panels for engineering programs at NUIG and UCC EU COST 628 committee member on wastewater plant management Teaching & Grants: Coordinates undergraduate and postgraduate modules in civil engineering. His research has been supported by institutional grants and EU initiatives. Collaborates with industry on projects involving expert witness testimony for legal proceedings and infrastructure assessments.

• Radioecology
• Radiation Dosimetry
• Nuclear Track Detectors
• +4 more

Dragana Krstic is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences, University of Kragujevac, Serbia. She has held this position since 2007, teaching Mechanics, Radiation Physics, and Radioecology. Her academic journey includes a PhD in Physics (2006) from the University of Kragujevac, specializing in the vertical distribution of Cs-137 in soil and effective dose calculations. Prior to her academic role, she worked as a high school teacher (1985–1989) and an assistant (1989–2007) at the same department. Dr. Krstic’s research focuses on radiation physics, radioecology, and radiation dosimetry. Key areas include soil radioactivity, radon progeny exposure, nuclear track detectors, and Monte Carlo simulations. Her work addresses environmental radioactivity impacts on human health, including external and internal radiation exposure assessments. Her publications span over 20 years, with contributions in journals like Health Physics , Applied Radiation and Isotopes , and Radiation Measurements . Major projects include developing experimental/theoretical methods in radioecology (2002–2014) and studies on radiation dosimetry models. She has also contributed to international conferences and served on doctoral thesis committees. Dr. Krstic is actively involved in research projects funded by Serbian science foundations, focusing on radiation protection, environmental monitoring, and medical applications of radiation detection technologies.

David BescobyView profile

Research Fellow

• Geoarchaeology
• Archaeological Remote Sensing
• GIS in Archaeology
• +3 more

David Bescoby is an Honorary Fellow in the School of Environmental Sciences at the University of East Anglia, specializing in geoarchaeology with over 20 years of international field experience at World Heritage Sites including Gordion (Turkey) and Butrint (Albania). His research integrates earth-science methodologies to address complex archaeological questions through interdisciplinary approaches. Academic Background: B.Sc. Archaeology, University of Bradford (1997) M.Sc. Geoarchaeology, University of Reading (2000) Ph.D. Archaeology, University of East Anglia (2003) Dr. Bescoby's research centers on applying remote sensing and GIS technologies to reconstruct past landscapes and model paleoenvironmental change. His work establishes high-resolution chronologies for landscape evolution, with recent focus on climate-driven coastal processes impacting cultural heritage sites. He develops process-based models that bridge archaeological evidence with environmental science to understand human-environment interactions across historical periods. His publication record (2010-2019) demonstrates consistent expertise in landscape archaeology and geoarchaeological methods, featuring studies on Roman land organization, Saxon building detection through geophysics, and tephrochronological dating of landscape changes. These works frequently involve international collaboration at significant Mediterranean and UK heritage locations, emphasizing scientific techniques for heritage conservation under climate stress. Scientific Awards: None documented in source materials. Dr. Bescoby actively leads climate-heritage research initiatives: Discipline Hopping for Climate change-Heritage solutions (ENV/NERC) The Later Prehistoric Norfolk Project (SISJAC) Caistor Roman Town Project, Norfolk, UK (University of Nottingham) He collaborates within interdisciplinary teams comprising geoscientists, archaeologists, and heritage professionals on international projects, particularly investigating climate impacts on coastal archaeological sites through integrated scientific methodologies.

• Archaeology
• Anthropology
• Cultural Resource Management
• +3 more

Dr. Kelsey Hanson is an Assistant Professor of Anthropology at the University of Texas at Arlington (Department of Sociology and Anthropology), where she teaches courses in archaeology and methodology. She also holds concurrent roles as a Research Associate at the New Mexico Office of Archaeological Studies and a Florence C. and Robert H. Lister Fellow at the Crow Canyon Archaeological Center. Her research focuses on Chacoan archaeology, Indigenous technologies, and cultural resource management (CRM), with a particular emphasis on material culture, ritual practices, and collaborative heritage preservation. PhD in Anthropology from The University of Arizona (2024) MS in Anthropology from Illinois State University (2016) BS in Anthropology and GIS Technology from Grand Valley State University (2014) Her research integrates archaeological chemistry, spatial analysis, and Indigenous ontologies to explore the social and environmental dimensions of prehistoric societies. Key projects include investigating paint production in Chaco Canyon, analyzing CRM field school pedagogy, and advocating for multivocal heritage frameworks. Recent work emphasizes the performative roles of material practices in power dynamics and community formation. Dr. Hanson has been recognized with awards such as the Julian D. Hayden Paper Prize (2022) and the Cordell Prize (2021). She actively mentors undergraduate researchers through programs like UROP and UGARP and serves on boards for organizations like Painted Rocks Historical Site, Inc. Her teaching spans archaeological methods, CRM, and theoretical archaeology, with a focus on experiential learning. Recent articles explore pigment analysis, plaza space transformations, and CRM educational initiatives Professional service includes departmental program reviews, anthropology club advising, and public archaeology outreach

• Sedimentology
• Ichnology
• Paleoenvironmental Analysis
• +4 more

Brian Platt is an Associate Professor of Geology & Geological Engineering at the University of Mississippi. His research spans sedimentology, ichnology, and paleoenvironmental reconstruction, with a focus on the Mississippi Embayment and High Plains regions. Education: Ph.D. in Geology from the University of Kansas (2012). Platt's work integrates neoichnology (experimental studies with elephants, avians, and arthropods) and geochemical analyses (XRF, detrital zircon dating) to study sedimentary systems. His recent publications examine reservoir quality in the Tuscaloosa Group, critical zone evolution in Paleocene strata, and heavy metal remediation using bauxite. While his articles emphasize stratigraphy and sedimentary petrology , they also highlight interdisciplinary applications in environmental science and climate history . No scientific awards or student advisement details are listed in the provided data.

• Geostatistics
• Hydrogeology
• Environmental Sustainability
• +3 more

Varouchakis Emmanouil is an Assistant Professor at the Technical University of Crete (TUC), affiliated with the School of Mineral Resources Engineering (MRE). His research focuses on geostatistical modeling, hydrogeology, and sustainable resource management. He actively contributes to projects like the IMMERSE initiative, which develops virtual excursions for critical raw materials education in the clean energy transition. His work integrates advanced statistical methods with environmental systems analysis. Key areas of expertise include groundwater dynamics, stochastic simulations for mining emissions reduction, and renewable energy potential assessment in the Mediterranean. He has developed decision support frameworks for water allocation optimization and circular economy strategies in mining waste management. His research often combines geostatistics with machine learning and remote sensing data to enhance environmental monitoring and predictive modeling. Emmanouil collaborates on EU-funded initiatives such as the OurMED project for sustainable water storage and the InTheMED project analyzing groundwater dynamics. He has authored numerous papers on topics like space-time correlations in mineral dissolution, spatial variability of precipitation, and probabilistic forecasting of extreme climate events. His academic contributions span both theoretical advancements (e.g., covariance models in multivariate geostatistics) and applied solutions (e.g., wave energy assessments in the Aegean Sea). He maintains an active role in advancing methodologies for climate resilience in energy infrastructure and groundwater resource management systems.

• Actinide Chemistry
• Nuclear Chemistry
• Environmental Radiochemistry
• +4 more

Dr. Shanna L. Estes serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Clemson University's College of Science, where she leads research in actinide chemistry and nuclear environmental science. Her work bridges fundamental molecular studies with practical applications in nuclear waste management and environmental protection. Her academic foundation includes a B.S. in Chemistry (2006), M.S. (2011), and Ph.D. (2014) in Environmental Engineering and Science from Clemson University, followed by postdoctoral training in Heavy Element and Separations Science at Argonne National Laboratory (2015-2018). Dr. Estes' research program investigates aqueous actinide behavior under extreme conditions using molecular spectroscopy, voltammetry, X-ray diffraction, and calorimetry. She specializes in redox chemistry of light actinides (uranium, plutonium, neptunium) to develop improved nuclear waste separation methods and predict environmental mobility in geologic repositories. Her group examines how ionic strength, temperature, and coordination environments influence thermodynamic properties. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications (2013-2025) reveals three dominant research thrusts: (1) Synthesis of novel actinide materials (americium/plutonium compounds via flux crystal growth), (2) Thermodynamic studies of actinide adsorption/complexation using advanced spectroscopic techniques, and (3) Environmental applications including Colombian mining health assessments and ceria-based energy materials. Her work consistently leverages cerium as an actinide surrogate for safer experimentation. Dr. Estes mentors graduate students in nuclear chemistry while operating from the Clemson Environmental Technologies Laboratory (CETL), utilizing specialized facilities in Rust Building (Labs 17, 27, 28; Office 107) and Hunter Hall 259 for handling radioactive materials and conducting high-precision measurements.

Brian A. PowellView profile

Professor

• Environmental Engineering
• Radiochemistry
• Nuclear Waste Management
• +4 more

Dr. Brian A. Powell is the Fjeld Professor in Nuclear Environmental Engineering and Science at Clemson University, jointly appointed in the Department of Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences and the Department of Chemistry. He holds affiliations with the Savannah River National Laboratory and leads Rosewater Geochemical Modeling, LLC. His research focuses on radioactive waste treatment, radionuclide migration, and geochemical modeling, supported by over $26M in federal funding. He has published 120+ peer-reviewed articles and advised 15 Ph.D. and 21 M.S. students. Dr. Powell’s awards include the 2022 Clemson Senior Researcher of the Year and the 2014 Governor’s Young Researcher Award. Education: Ph.D. and M.S. in Environmental Engineering (Clemson University, 2004 and 2001), B.S. in Chemistry (University of Montevallo, 1999). Postdoctoral research at Lawrence Livermore and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratories (2004–2008). Academic career at Clemson since 2008, progressing to Full Professor in 2016. Research interests span environmental radiochemistry, subsurface contaminant transport, and nuclear waste disposal. Recent work includes uranium partitioning in wetlands, plutonium cycling in ponds, and technetium leaching from cement waste forms. His studies integrate field, laboratory, and computational methods to address environmental and health risks from nuclear materials. Awards: 2022 Clemson Class of ’39 Award, 2021 Engineering Researcher of the Year, 2018 Fred C. Davidson Award, and DOE Early Career Award (2013). Active in university governance, serving on strategic planning committees and the Faculty Senate. Advising and Grants: Supervised 15 Ph.D. students, 21 M.S. students, and 15 postdocs. Over $26M in grants from DOE, NRC, and others. Collaborations with Savannah River National Lab advance waste disposal solutions. Mentored HBCU students in nuclear waste research through summer programs. Labs and Teams: Joint appointee at Savannah River National Lab; founder of Rosewater Geochemical Modeling LLC. Active in professional societies, including NCRP’s Environmental Radiation Committee.

Lindsay Shuller-NicklesView profile

Associate Professor

• Environmental Mineralogy
• Actinide Chemistry
• Geochemistry
• +4 more

Dr. Lindsay Shuller-Nickles is an Associate Professor in the Department of Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences at Clemson University. Her research focuses on environmental mineralogy, actinide chemistry, and computational materials science, with an emphasis on nuclear waste management and nuclear forensics. She holds a Ph.D., M.S., and B.S. in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Michigan (2010, 2007, 2005). Her work integrates experimental and computational methods to evaluate nuclear materials stability and waste streams. Current funded projects include a Department of Homeland Security grant for nuclear forensics and a Nuclear Regulatory Commission scholarship program. Key research areas include hollandite-based ceramics for cesium immobilization and radionuclide retention mechanisms. Education: Ph.D. Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, 2010 M.S. Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, 2007 B.S. Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, 2005 Research Interests: Her studies address nuclear fuel cycle waste management, geochemical interactions of actinides, and material durability under radiation. Recent efforts involve developing predictive models for geologic corrosion and characterizing materials for nuclear forensics. Awards: First Place in Innovations in Fuel Cycle Research (2010) Best Poster at Waste Management Conference (2008) Office of Civilian and Radioactive Waste Management Fellowship (2007-2010) Roy G Post Scholarship (2007) Advising & Grants: As PI for the Nuclear Forensics Junior Faculty Award and NRC scholarship program, she supports undergraduate education and nuclear engineering initiatives. Her research is further bolstered by collaborations in material synthesis and computational modeling. Labs/Teams: Her research group focuses on interdisciplinary approaches to nuclear materials science, with active participation in DOE and DHS-funded projects.

Timo HeisterView profile

Professor

• Computational Mathematics
• Finite Element Methods
• Parallel Computing
• +2 more

Timo Heister is a Professor in the School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences at Clemson University. His research focuses on computational mathematics, finite element methods, and high-performance computing applications in geophysics and materials science. He has supervised numerous PhD and Master's students including Pengfei Jia, Thomas Clevenger, Liang Zhao, and current advisees Anna Long, Quang Hoang, and Ryan Moulday. He has also mentored postdoctoral researchers Arushi Saxena, Vladimir Yushutin, and Jiaqi Zhang. His research explores: Parallel adaptive finite element methods for large-scale simulations Mantle convection modeling and geophysical fluid dynamics Phase-field fracture propagation and computational mechanics High-performance computing architectures and algorithms Scientific software development (deal.II, ASPECT) His publications primarily focus on numerical methods, computational geophysics, and parallel computing. Recent articles demonstrate advancements in finite element techniques, mantle convection simulations, and parallel algorithm design. Awards include the Mathematical Sciences Departmental Teaching Award (Clemson 2016/2017), KAUST Postdoctoral Fellowship (2011-2013), and DFG Research Training Group Fellowship (2009-2011). He leads significant NSF-funded projects including 'Future Proofing the Finite Element Library Deal.II' ($700,000) and 'Integrated Geodynamic Earth Models' ($393,570). He maintains leadership in the deal.II and ASPECT communities, organizing international workshops and hackathons.