معرفی
Dr. Mark W. Sprague is an Associate Professor and Assistant Chair for Undergraduate Studies in the Department of Physics at East Carolina University (ECU). He holds a PhD in Physics from the University of Mississippi (1994), an MS in Physics (1991), and a BS in Physics from Rhodes College (1988). His research focuses on physical and biological acoustics, particularly underwater sound propagation and the acoustic behavior of marine organisms like fish, whales, and invertebrates. He also develops computational models for sound propagation in shallow water and contributes to physics education improvements.
Dr. Sprague’s research projects include using autonomous platforms like the Wave Glider Blackbeard to map underwater soundscapes, deploying hydrophone arrays in oyster marshes, and modeling sound exposure impacts on aquatic life. His work integrates computational physics with field studies, such as developing acoustic particle velocity measurement instruments. He teaches courses in mechanics, advanced laboratory techniques, and introductory physics.
His publications span topics like fish sound production mechanisms, anthropogenic noise effects on marine life, and acoustic modeling in shallow-water environments. He has advised undergraduate and graduate students on projects involving acoustic data analysis and field experiments. Dr. Sprague has served as Faculty Advisor for the ECU Society of Physics Students, Chair of the Faculty, and a delegate to the UNC Faculty Assembly.
His research labs focus on interdisciplinary approaches combining acoustics, marine biology, and computational methods. Current projects emphasize understanding how human-made sounds affect underwater ecosystems and improving acoustic methodologies for studying aquatic species.
