Natalia Zakharova

Natalia Zakharova is an Associate Professor in the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at Central Michigan University, within the College of Science and Engineering. She leads the Geophysics and Geomechanics Laboratory (G²), actively involving undergraduate and graduate students in her research. Her work bridges petrophysics and geomechanics with applications in energy resources, carbon sequestration, and environmental protection.

Education:

• Ph.D., Earth & Environmental Sciences, Columbia University, New York
• M.S., with Honors, Applied Geophysics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Russia
• B.S., with Honors, Geology and Geophysics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Russia

Her research focuses on stress heterogeneity in the shallow crust, borehole stress evaluation, induced seismicity, and carbon capture and storage (CCUS), particularly in basalts and unconventional reservoirs. She investigates petrophysical properties of gas shales, microbial gas generation, and physical properties of rift basins and oceanic crust. Her teaching includes courses such as Introduction to Earth Systems, Dangerous Planet, Geomath, and Applied Geostatistics.

The recent publications reflect a strong trend in experimental and field-based studies of shale reservoirs, CO₂ sequestration, and geomechanical characterization. Key themes include pore structure analysis, fracture mechanics, adsorption behavior, and reservoir evaluation in the Antrim Shale and Newark Rift Basin. These works emphasize sustainable energy solutions and environmental safety.

Scientific Awards:

• No scientific awards mentioned in the provided text.

Dr. Zakharova actively mentors students, with several co-authored publications involving student researchers marked in her publication list. She has not mentioned specific grants, but her research on CO₂ injection, carbon storage, and shale characterization suggests involvement in externally funded projects related to climate change mitigation and energy sustainability. She teaches a professional development course, indicating commitment to student growth and career preparation.

She founded and leads the Geophysics and Geomechanics Laboratory (G²), which supports experimental and analytical research in rock properties, pore systems, and geomechanical behavior. The lab fosters interdisciplinary work connecting geophysics, geochemistry, and environmental science.