Maud Walsh

Maud Walsh is a Professor in the School of Plant, Environmental, and Soil Sciences at Louisiana State University (LSU), serving as Undergraduate and Graduate Advisor. She holds a B.A. in English Literature (Bryn Mawr College, 1975), an M.L.S. in Library Science (LSU, 1976), and a Ph.D. in Geology (LSU, 1989). Her academic career includes roles from Research Assistant Professor (1989–2001) to her current full professorship (2012–present).

Her research focuses on environmental management, geology, and astrobiology, with emphasis on microbial fossils, phytoremediation, and sustainable agriculture education. She leads projects like the USDA-funded "Sustainable Agriculture in STEM" initiative and collaborates on LSU’s Superfund Research Program addressing environmental contaminants.

Teaching specialties include EMS 1011, EMS 2011, and communication-intensive courses integrating service-learning. She advises students in Environmental Management Systems programs and mentors interns and practicum students. Awards include the Carnegie Foundation Louisiana Professor of the Year (2008) and multiple teaching recognitions from LSU and national organizations.

• Grants: USDA PD-STEP (2018–2021), NIH Superfund Research (2011–2018), and others totaling $2.5M+.
• Community Engagement: LSU STEM Pathways, College of Agriculture Residential College, and 4-H Youth Development.
• Publications: Over 50 peer-reviewed articles on environmental science, geology, and astrobiology, including edited volumes on early Earth biosignatures.