Daniel Sturmer

Daniel Sturmer is an Associate Professor in the Department of Geosciences at the University of Cincinnati, where he has served on the faculty since 2017 (promoted to Associate Professor in 2023). His research integrates geological, geophysical, and petrophysical methodologies to investigate basin formation, evolution, and resource potential, with particular emphasis on sedimentation-tectonics interactions in western North American settings.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Geology, University of Nevada, Reno (2012)
• M.S. in Geology, University of Nevada, Reno (2007)
• B.S. in Geology, California State University, Fullerton (2004)
• B.A. in Business Administration, California State University, Fullerton (2003)

Sturmer's research program centers on basin dynamics and tectonic evolution, with significant contributions to understanding the Ancestral Rocky Mountains orogeny and landslide geomorphology. He employs field-based structural analysis, geophysical surveys, and numerical modeling to unravel complex basin histories and assess geohazards. Recent work emphasizes mega-landslide dynamics in the Basin and Range Province and their role in landscape denudation.

His publication trajectory (2023-2025) reveals three dominant themes: (1) tectonic modeling of Paleozoic orogenic systems using geomechanical approaches, (2) advanced geophysical characterization of landslide deposits and seismic hazards, and (3) innovative geoscience education initiatives including urban field methods and popular culture integration. The NSF-funded DE-STRESS REU site exemplifies his commitment to undergraduate research training in sedimentation and tectonics.

Sturmer has successfully mentored six graduate students to completion and currently chairs three doctoral committees. His externally funded research portfolio exceeds $300,000, including an NSF CAREER award (pending), multiple USGS grants, and an ACS PRF award. Key projects include landslide mapping in Nevada, seismic hazard assessment in Cincinnati, and hyporheic zone dynamics in urban watersheds.

He leads the Cooper Creek Collaborative Experimental Watershed research initiative and collaborates extensively with USGS and FEMA on geohazard projects. His work integrates field teams across Nevada, Ohio, and California, with strong emphasis on undergraduate participation in active research programs.