Find Academic Supervisors

• Soil Science
• Pedology
• Geomorphology
• +11 more

Carol Smith is an Associate Professor in the Department of Soil & Physical Sciences at Lincoln University, New Zealand, where she serves as Head of Department since 2017. She has been an elected academic staff member of the Lincoln University Council from 2018-2022. Dr. Smith holds a PhD from the University of Aberdeen, an MSc from the University of Reading, and a BSc(Hons) from the University of Portsmouth, forming the foundation of her expertise in soil science and physical geography. Her research spans both fundamental and applied aspects of pedology. On the fundamental side, she investigates Quaternary pedology and paleoenvironmental reconstruction using loess stratigraphy, geomorphology, and micromorphology, which provides critical data for verifying future climate change predictive models. Applied research focuses on sustainable use of recycled organic matter and rehabilitation of degraded soils. She collaborates internationally on multidisciplinary projects involving paleoclimate reconstruction, paleoliquefaction, Antarctic soils, and viticulture. Dr. Smith is passionate about teaching and science communication, employing experiential learning methods to develop practical field skills in soil science through 'soil judging competitions' in New Zealand and Australia. Her research addresses UN Sustainable Development Goals including Life on Land (15), Climate Action (13), and Quality Education (4). Among her notable recognitions are the Norman H Taylor Memorial award 2020 from the New Zealand Society of Soil Science for outstanding contributions to soil science in New Zealand and Fellowship in the Royal Geographical Society, London. She serves as Associate Editor of Natural Sciences Education and was previously editor of Quaternary Australasia. Dr. Smith has supervised numerous graduate students through research-based supervision, with completed projects covering diverse topics from soil patterns in Southland to Antarctic soil ecology. She teaches advanced courses in field research, soil science, and physical landscapes, and has developed innovative approaches to teaching during the pandemic, including virtual field trips.

Britney SchmidtView profile

Associate Professor

• Planetary Science
• Glaciology
• Robotic Exploration
• +3 more

Britney Schmidt is Associate Professor in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences and Astronomy at Cornell University, where she leads the Planetary Habitability and Technology Lab. She develops robotic tools like the Icefin underwater vehicle to study Earth's ice shelves and glaciers, providing insights into climate change and analogs for ocean worlds like Europa. Her research bridges glaciology, planetary science, and astrobiology. Research focuses on ocean world habitability, ice-ocean interactions, and Antarctic climate systems. Fieldwork includes extensive campaigns in Antarctica and the Arctic using robotic explorers. Recent publications explore Europa's habitability, Thwaites Glacier dynamics, microbial communities in hypersaline environments, and planetary analog studies. Technical developments include novel instrumentation for under-ice exploration. Awarded the 2024 Blavatnik National Award for groundbreaking research. Leads multiple international collaborations including NASA's Europa Clipper mission and Thwaites Glacier projects.

• Glacial Geomorphology
• Palaeoglaciology
• Quaternary Science
• +6 more

Professor David J.A. Evans is a distinguished glacial geomorphologist at Durham University's Department of Geography. His research spans three interconnected themes at the interface of glacial geology and Quaternary science, focusing on palaeoglaciology and the reconstruction of former glaciers and ice sheets through time. With extensive field experience across the Arctic, North Atlantic, and Southern Hemisphere, he has contributed significantly to the understanding of glacial landscapes and processes globally. BA (Hons), St. David's University College, University of Wales, Lampeter, 1982 MSc, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Canada, 1984 PhD, University of Alberta, Canada, 1988 Professor Evans' research centers on glacial landsystems, glacial sedimentology, and Quaternary palaeoenvironments of glaciated basins. His work develops conceptual landsystems models for glacial process-form relationships, with field sites ranging from the Canadian High Arctic to mid-latitude mountains. He has pioneered research connecting subglacial process-form relationships to landform development models, particularly through his studies of active temperate glacier margins in Iceland. His sedimentological work has established a genetically framed classification scheme for tills and glacitectonites. Evans has contributed to major ice sheet reconstructions worldwide, including the British and Irish Ice Sheet (through the BRITICE-CHRONO project), Laurentide Ice Sheet, and Arctic Norway. His extensive publication record demonstrates consistent research activity with 15 recent articles focusing on ice sheet dynamics, glacial landform evolution, and Quaternary environmental reconstruction across multiple continents. These works reveal a strong emphasis on methodological innovation in mapping and analyzing glacial landscapes, with increasing integration of remote sensing and quantitative approaches to understand both contemporary glacier behavior and past ice sheet dynamics. Scientific Recognition: Busk Medal (Royal Geographical Society), 2017, for excellence and originality in the study of glacial landscapes and processes and empowering the next generation Professor Evans has collaborated extensively with international research teams on major projects including BRITICE-CHRONO and has contributed to engineering geology applications through technical guides for glaciated terrains. His work bridges pure academic research with practical applications in engineering geology and environmental management. He has supervised numerous field guides and edited influential publications in glacial geomorphology. His research involves extensive fieldwork in Iceland (particularly on the Vatnajökull ice cap), the British Isles, Canadian Arctic, and other glaciated regions, often using modern glacier systems as analogues for reconstructing past ice sheets. Evans has developed significant expertise in glacial landsystem mapping and interpretation, contributing to both academic understanding and practical engineering applications in glaciated terrains.

Jörg VölkelView profile

Professor

• Geomorphology
• Soil Science
• Global Change Research
• +4 more

Prof. Jörg Völkel holds the professorship in Geomorphology and Soil Science at the TUM School of Life Sciences, Technische Universität München. His research focuses on global environmental change, landscape genesis, and geoarchives analysis across Central Europe, Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and high mountain regions. He investigates critical zone dynamics, soil functions, geophysical prospecting, and geoarchaeology to validate environmental predictions. Academically, he earned his diploma (1985) and doctorate (1988) from the University of Bonn, followed by a habilitation (1993) at the University of Regensburg. Prior to TUM, he held professorships at Friedrich Schiller University Jena and University of Regensburg. He has led major research initiatives including the DFG-GRK 462 "Paleoecosystem Research" and coordinates Bavarian climate and environmental networks. Research emphasizes geomorphodynamics, soil genesis, and interdisciplinary approaches to environmental challenges. He serves on the Bavarian Climate Council (StMUV), Bavarian Academy of Sciences’ Geomorphology Commission, and is Chief Editor of Annals of Geomorphology . Key achievements include the 1989 Doctoral Prize from University of Bonn and leadership in international research collaborations. His work bridges geoscience with climate modeling through innovative field and geophysical methods.

Eric KirbyView profile

Research Professor

• Tectonics
• Geomorphology
• Landscape Evolution
• +7 more

Eric Kirby is an Adjunct Research Professor in the Department of Earth, Marine, and Environmental Sciences at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, within the College of Arts and Sciences. He is actively engaged in tectonics and geomorphology research, leading the Tectonics and Geomorphology Lab. Education: Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology (2001) M.S., University of New Mexico (1994) B.A., Hamilton College (1992) Dr. Kirby's research centers on the interplay between tectonics, climate, and erosion in shaping mountainous landscapes. His work spans active mountain belts globally, with a focus on the Tibetan Plateau, convergent margins, and active fault systems. He investigates landscape responses to rock uplift, mantle flow, and hydrological processes, integrating field observations with geochronology and geophysical data. His recent publications reveal a strong trend in Quaternary tectonics, paleoseismology, fluvial geomorphology, and climate-tectonics coupling. Key themes include fault slip rate quantification, paleolake evolution, river terrace formation, and transient landscape responses to base-level changes, primarily in high-elevation and tectonically active regions. Scientific Awards: No awards listed in the provided text. Dr. Kirby actively mentors graduate students and collaborates on funded research projects involving landscape evolution, critical zone dynamics, and tectonic geomorphology. His work is supported by publications in top-tier journals and collaborations with leading institutions. He advises several students, including W.M. Rittase, Q. Su, N. West, and X. Shi, who appear as first authors on joint publications. He leads the Tectonics and Geomorphology Lab , which conducts research on active tectonics, surface processes, and landscape evolution using field mapping, remote sensing, and numerical modeling techniques.

Madison DouglasView profile

Assistant Professor

• Landscape Evolution
• Permafrost Geomorphology
• Earth Surface Processes
• +3 more

Madison Douglas is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Earth and Planetary Science at the University of California, Berkeley. Her research focuses on understanding the physical, chemical, and biological processes that shape Earth's surface, particularly in permafrost environments and California's dynamic landscapes. Education: Bachelor of Science (BS) in Earth Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), 2016 Master of Science (MS) and PhD in Geological and Planetary Sciences, California Institute of Technology (Caltech), 2023 Postdoctoral Researcher, MIT, 2024 Research Interests: Madison's work spans landscape evolution, periglacial geomorphology, and the interplay between biological/geochemical cycles and sediment dynamics. She integrates fieldwork, lab experiments, remote sensing, and numerical modeling to study natural hazards like flooding and debris flows, emphasizing climate change impacts on permafrost thaw and greenhouse gas release.

Kevin BriggsView profile

Associate Professor

• Geotechnical Engineering
• Climate Change Impact on Infrastructure
• Engineering Geology
• +3 more

Dr. Kevin Briggs is an Associate Professor in Geomechanics and RAEng/HS2 Ltd Senior Research Fellow at the University of Southampton. His work focuses on geotechnical engineering challenges, particularly the impact of climate change on transportation infrastructure, mudstone properties, and infrastructure deterioration. He is affiliated with the Infrastructure Group within the Faculty of Engineering and the Environment. Research interests include: Extreme weather and climate change effects on transportation earthworks Ageing infrastructure deterioration mechanisms Engineering properties of Jurassic and Triassic mudstones Glacial/periglacial weathering impacts on ground stability Recent work emphasizes climate-driven porewater pressure analysis, Bayesian slope failure prediction, and material behavior in historic structures. His research bridges geotechnical engineering with environmental science to enhance infrastructure resilience. Notable achievements include the 2018 EPSRC RISE award and 2023 Shropshire Geological Society Honorary Membership. He actively supervises PhD candidates focusing on geotechnical asset management and climate adaptation strategies. Current projects involve HS2-funded geotechnical research and collaborative studies on transportation earthwork deterioration. His interdisciplinary approach integrates geomechanics with remote sensing technologies like InSAR for infrastructure monitoring.

Rolfe David MandelView profile

Professor

• Geoarchaeology
• Quaternary Geology
• Geomorphology
• +4 more

Rolfe David Mandel is a University Distinguished Professor at the University of Kansas, specializing in Quaternary Geology and Geoarchaeology. His work focuses on landscape evolution, paleoenvironmental reconstruction, and the integration of geological and archaeological methodologies. Research Interests: Geoarchaeology of prehistoric landscapes Quaternary climate dynamics Fluvial and aeolian processes Remote sensing applications in archaeology Publications highlight his expertise in reconstructing Pleistocene/Holocene environmental changes in North America and globally. Notable projects include studies on the Nebraska Sand Hills, Yukon's Bluefish Caves, and extraterrestrial geoarchaeological frontiers. He also leads efforts in applying Quaternary science to cultural resource management challenges. Teaching emphasizes geoarchaeological methods and Quaternary geology, with courses on paleoenvironmental reconstruction and geomorphology. His work bridges geology and archaeology, addressing questions of human-environment interactions across timescales—from Paleolithic migrations to future lunar heritage preservation.

Miao LiView profile

Senior Lecturer

• Computational mechanics
• Numerical modelling
• Computational fluid dynamics
• +7 more

Miao Li is a Senior Lecturer in Engineering at Charles Sturt University, affiliated with the School of Computing, Mathematics and Engineering. She is a member of the Imaging and Sensing Research Group and the Sustainability in Engineering Research Group (SERG) at the Gulbali Research Institute. Her academic journey includes a PhD in Civil Engineering from Griffith University and earlier degrees in geological and engineering geology from Chinese institutions. Doctor of Philosophy (Civil Engineering) Master of Science (Geological Engineering) Bachelor of Science (Engineering Geology) Dr Li's research spans computational mechanics, numerical modeling, wastewater treatment, and non-linear structural dynamics, with a strong focus on sustainable engineering solutions. Her work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals through innovations in geotechnical systems, energy storage, and low-carbon construction. She has published extensively in top journals, with recent work focusing on adaptive mesh refinement, rock damage modeling, and frost heave in soils. Her recent publications highlight a trend toward high-fidelity numerical simulations and experimental validation in geotechnical and structural systems, particularly under extreme or cyclic loading conditions. She applies computational fluid dynamics and finite element methods to solve complex engineering problems in energy, infrastructure, and environmental resilience. Executive Dean Teaching Award (2024) Fellow of Advance HE (2025) Dr Li is a registered thesis supervisor and actively mentors students through research projects and industry placements. She has secured research recognition through awards and grants, and her work is frequently covered in press and media, reflecting its real-world impact. She participates in major international conferences in ocean, offshore, and structural engineering, and contributes to editorial and academic organizing roles. She leads research initiatives within the Imaging and Sensing Research Group and SERG, focusing on smart sensing, sustainable materials, and computational modeling for resilient infrastructure.

Suzanne AndersonView profile

Professor

• Geomorphology
• Weathering
• Hydrology
• +6 more

Suzanne Anderson is a Professor in the Department of Geological Sciences at the University of Colorado and a member of INSTAAR (Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research). Her research focuses on geomorphological processes shaping Earth's surface, with emphasis on weathering, hydrology, and critical zone science. She has led interdisciplinary initiatives like the Boulder Creek Critical Zone Observatory and co-authored the textbook Geomorphology: The Mechanics and Chemistry of Landscapes and children's book The Living Landscape: Discovering the Critical Zone . Education : PhD in Geology (UC Berkeley, 1995), MS in Geological Sciences (University of Washington, 1987), BS in Chemistry (University of Puget Sound, 1979) Her research explores: Hydrological and chemical weathering processes in critical zone systems Aspect-controlled hydrology and weathering front dynamics in montane landscapes Interactions between ice (glaciers, rock glaciers, permafrost) and landscape evolution Legacy of Quaternary climate in modern weathering profiles Carbon cycling in icy river corridors Publications reveal trends in: Mountain hydrology and aspect-driven groundwater dynamics Permafrost and glacial landscape evolution Critical Zone architecture and weathering front propagation Network-based geomorphological research Climate-water-erosion feedbacks Interdisciplinary CZO science Scientific awards include: Fellow, American Geophysical Union (2021) G.K. Gilbert Award in Surface Processes (AGU, 2020) Fellow, Geological Society of America (2019) International Association of GeoChemistry Certificate (2012) She has mentored 37 graduate students and 10 postdocs through the Boulder Creek CZO program. Her work has secured NSF funding for critical zone science initiatives and polar programs postdoctoral fellowships. Current research focuses on alpine hydrology with ice-bearing landscapes and Arctic riverine carbon budgets, continuing collaborations through the Cryosphere and Surface Processes Lab, CAGE facility, and CSDMS modeling system.

Catherine DelaneyView profile

Senior Lecturer

• Quaternary Science
• Glacial Sedimentology
• Geomorphology
• +3 more

Dr. Catherine Delaney is a Senior Lecturer in Physical Geography and Quaternary Science at Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU), where she has worked since 1996. Her research focuses on reconstructing ice sheet dynamics through glacial and periglacial landform analysis, sedimentology, and remote sensing techniques. She holds a Ph.D. in Glacial Sedimentology from Trinity College Dublin (1996). Education: Ph.D. in Glacial Sedimentology, Trinity College Dublin, 1996 Research Interests: Her work combines geomorphological mapping (using LiDAR and high-resolution DEMs), sedimentological analysis of glacial lake deposits (including varves), and ground-penetrating radar to study deglacial processes. She is particularly interested in how ice sheets retreated and interacted with their environments during the Quaternary period. Professional Roles: Chief Editor, North West Geography Honourable Secretary, Manchester Geographical Society Member of the Quaternary Research Association, Irish Quaternary Association, and Cryosphere in Manchester (CRAM) Teaching: She teaches courses on geomorphology, glacial systems, and Quaternary environments, integrating fieldwork and analytical techniques into her pedagogy. Affiliations: Her research has included EU-funded projects on Holocene storminess records along the European Atlantic Coast (1991–1996). She actively contributes to academic communities through editorial and organizational roles.

Ylva SjöbergView profile

Associate Professor

• Arctic Hydrology
• Permafrost Dynamics
• Climate Change Impact on Water Resources
• +2 more

Ylva Sjöberg is an Associate Professor at the Department of Ecology, Environment and Geoscience, Umeå University. Her research focuses on Arctic hydrology, permafrost dynamics, and climate change impacts on water resources, employing numerical modeling and field-based methods across northern Fennoscandia, Greenland, and Alaska. Key research areas include: Mechanistic understanding of Arctic river methane emissions (ARIMETH project, 2025) Cryospheric impacts on water quality and flow paths Development of standardized permafrost thaw monitoring protocols Science communication through Frozen-Ground Cartoons Her publications emphasize interdisciplinary approaches, linking groundwater-surface water interactions, permafrost thaw cascades, and biogeochemical processes in Arctic catchments. She actively collaborates with Indigenous communities and contributes to Arctic policy frameworks.

Roman DibiaseView profile

Associate Professor

• Geomorphology
• Erosion Processes
• Tectonics
• +6 more

Roman Dibiase is an Associate Professor in the Department of Geosciences at Pennsylvania State University within the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences . His research focuses on Geomorphology , Erosion Processes , and Landscape Evolution , particularly examining how water, tectonics, and climate change shape mountainous and bedrock-dominated terrains. His recent work explores Debris Flow Dynamics , Bedrock Fractures , and Critical Zone Studies , with fieldwork in Pennsylvania, Taiwan, and permafrost regions. He utilizes cosmogenic nuclides like 10 Be to quantify erosion rates and investigates post-wildfire sediment transport, hillslope-channel coupling, and lithologic controls on landscape form. Scientific awards and student advising details are not explicitly mentioned in the provided texts. However, his publications highlight collaborations with researchers across institutions, focusing on Sediment Transport , Hydrological Modeling , and Climate-Landform Interactions .

Phillip H. LarsonView profile

Professor

• Geomorphology
• Fluvial Geomorphology
• Quaternary Geology
• +7 more

Phillip H. Larson is a Full Professor and Co-Director of the EARTH Systems Laboratory at Minnesota State University, Mankato , with a joint appointment as Graduate Faculty in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities . His work bridges geomorphology, climate change, and human-environment interactions through field and laboratory research. PhD and MA in Geography from Arizona State University (2013, 2011) BS in Geography-Resource Management and Geology from University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire (2008) Research Interests focus on: Climate change impacts on geomorphic systems Geoarchaeology of river valleys and sand stringers Drainage integration mechanisms in tectonic settings Aeolian and periglacial processes in the upper Midwest Quantifying erosion rates via OSL and cosmogenic nuclide dating Human-river interactions and invasive species management Publications highlight his expertise in river systems (Salt/Verde Rivers, Chippewa River, Whitewater River), glacial meltwater impacts, and aeolian landforms (cliff-top dunes, sand stringers). Key journals include Geomorphology , Quaternary Research , and Annals of the American Association of Geographers . Awards include: GK Gilbert Award – American Association of Geographers (2016) Douglas R. Moore Research Lectureship – Minnesota State University (2022) He mentors graduate students in field methods, geochronology, and fluvial processes, with 15+ peer-reviewed publications and $3M+ in grants (NSF, Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund). His work often integrates ground-penetrating radar , GIS/GNSS , and remote sensing to address environmental hazards and watershed management.

Michele KoppesView profile

Professor

• Climate Change
• Glaciology
• Geomorphology
• +3 more

Michele Koppes is a Professor at the Department of Geography, Faculty of Arts, University of British Columbia (UBC). She is on leave until June 30, 2026, and affiliated with the Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability and multiple research clusters including the Landscapes of Climate Change Lab Climate and Cryosphere Lab Systems Being Lab Public Humanities Hub Critical Physical Geography group . Education: PhD, University of Washington (2007) MSc, University of Washington BA, Williams College (Honours) Research Interests: Her work investigates how glaciers, mountains, and human communities respond to climate change. Key themes include: Glacial erosion and landscape evolution Cryospheric hazards in a warming world Mountain cultural resilience and adaptation Intersection of Indigenous/local knowledge and Western science Sediment dynamics in deglaciating environments Critical approaches to geoscience She works in British Columbia, Alaska, Patagonia, Greenland, and the Himalayas. Scientific Awards: Wall Scholar (2022-2023) 2024-2025 Research Trends: Articles focus on cryospheric hazards, sediment dynamics in warming climates, Indigenous knowledge integration, and justice in climate research. Collaborative projects span glacier retreat impacts on hydropower, reflexive scientific practices, and Third Pole environmental changes.