Randal Martin

Randal Martin is a Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Utah State University (USU), affiliated with the Utah Water Research Laboratory (UWRL). He teaches core courses in air quality management, air pollutant measurements, and environmental process dynamics, and has coordinated seminars and laboratory courses. His research is centered on air pollution, with emphasis on PM2.5, wintertime ozone, ammonia emissions, and agricultural and vehicular sources.

• PhD, Civil Engineering, Washington State University, 1992
• MS, Environmental Engineering, Washington State University, 1989
• BS, Environmental Engineering, Montana Tech, 1982

Dr. Martin’s research spans atmospheric chemistry, environmental monitoring, and health impacts of air pollution. He investigates the sources and formation mechanisms of particulate matter and ozone, particularly in complex environments like Utah’s mountain valleys and the Great Salt Lake region. His work integrates field measurements, remote sensing (including drone-based systems), and laboratory toxicology to assess both environmental and human health impacts.

His recent publications reveal a strong focus on real-world air quality challenges, including urban and agricultural emissions, indoor air pollution in hookah lounges, and transboundary smoke from wildfires. He employs advanced instrumentation, including low-cost sensors and lidar, to monitor pollutants across diverse spatial and temporal scales. His studies often involve interdisciplinary collaboration and have direct policy and public health implications.

Notable scientific awards include:

• Fulbright Flex Grant, 2017
• 2007 Outstanding Engaged Scholar, Utah Campus Compact

Dr. Martin has mentored multiple graduate students and leads significant research projects such as the Wasatch Front Ozone Study (2023–2025), which uses drones to measure ozone over the Great Salt Lake, and real-time ammonia emissions studies from vehicles and ambient sources. He has also contributed to educational outreach, including the USU Stars! Gear Up Summer Engineering Camp for high school students.

He is actively involved in laboratory coordination, course development, and interdisciplinary environmental research, maintaining a strong presence in both academic and applied environmental science communities.