Nathan Howell

Dr. Nathan Howell is an Associate Professor of Environmental Engineering at West Texas A&M University's College of Engineering. His expertise spans environmental chemistry, water resource management, and GIS applications. He joined the university in 2013 after earning a B.S. (High Honors) in Chemical Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin and a Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering from the University of Houston. His research focuses on persistent organic pollutants, biochar applications in agriculture, and water quality modeling in arid regions.

Education:

• B.S. Chemical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin (2004)
• Ph.D. Environmental Engineering, University of Houston (2012)

Research Interests:
Dr. Howell investigates pollutant fate-and-transport in surface water/sediment systems, biochar utilization for soil improvement, and innovative water management strategies for semi-arid environments. He actively collaborates on interdisciplinary projects such as the university's Water Working Group and Human-Machine Teaming Laboratory. His work bridges environmental engineering with community needs, including wastewater epidemiology and homelessness solutions through engineering design.

Grants & Collaborations:
Recipient of NSF MRI grant for surface/sorption characterization instrumentation. Collaborates with experts in sediment transport, environmental sampling, and agricultural engineering. Engaged in Texas water policy research through the Ogallala/Dockum aquifer studies.

Labs & Teams:
Core member of the Water Working Group promoting interdisciplinary research. Associated with the Human-Machine Teaming Laboratory exploring technological-socioeconomic solutions. Leads environmental engineering laboratory development in the curriculum.