Kutalmis Saylam

Kutalmis Saylam is a Research Scientist Associate V at the Near-Surface Laboratory within the Bureau of Economic Geology, part of the Jackson School of Geosciences at The University of Texas at Austin. He specializes in airborne lidar bathymetry and remote sensing for hydrographic and topographic mapping.

• Education:
  • Ph.D. in Geomatics, University of Ottawa
  • M.Eng. in Geodesy and Geomatics Engineering, University of New Brunswick
  • B.S. Eng. in Agricultural and Hydrological Engineering, University of Ankara
  • Visiting Researcher, University of Florida

Saylam's research focuses on bathymetric mapping of inland watersheds using lidar systems like the Leica AHAB Chiroptera. He develops quality control procedures for hydrographic surveys, integrates multi-sensor datasets (Lidar, GPR, sonar), and explores applications of NASA's ICESat-2 for remote depth measurement.

His recent work includes mapping thermokarst lakes in Alaska, studying Devils River hydrology, and validating ICESat-2 data for Arctic sea ice. Publications highlight advancements in lidar accuracy, environmental monitoring, and rapid-response surveying for hazards.

Current collaborations emphasize innovative lidar applications, spectral imaging, and temporal analysis of dynamic Earth systems. Saylam's expertise spans terrestrial and aquatic environments, with fieldwork experience from the Arctic to Texas deserts.