John Burnham Shaw

John Burnham Shaw is an Associate Professor in the Department of Geosciences at the University of Arkansas, where he has served since 2014. His research focuses on river deltas, coastal geomorphology, and stratigraphy. As Vice Chair of the department, he combines leadership with sedimentological expertise.

• Department of Energy Early Career Researcher
• Geoscience Professor of the Year (2016, 2018)

Research Interests:
Shaw's work examines physical mechanisms of channel network formation and sedimentary controls on delta volume/mass balance. His group studies Earth and Mars delta systems, coastal subsidence, and human modification of fluvial environments through:

• Quantitative analysis of distributary channel dynamics
• Field-based sediment deficit measurements in Louisiana
• Mars-analog studies of ancient deltaic systems

The Shaw Sedimentology and Stratigraphy Laboratory emphasizes fieldwork and computational modeling to predict coastal change.

Teaching Contributions:
He instructs courses in Sedimentology, Stratigraphy, Field Camp, and Research Methods for Geoscientists, prioritizing quantitative skill development and hands-on geological investigation.