Rebecca Muenich

Rebecca Muenich is an Adjunct Professor at Arizona State University (ASU), affiliated with the School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment. She holds additional roles as a Senior Global Futures Scientist and affiliated faculty in Earth Systems Science for the Anthropocene and the ASU Water Institute. Her research focuses on watershed modeling, water quality, and the food-energy-water nexus in agricultural ecosystems.

Education

• Ph.D. Agricultural and Biological Engineering, Purdue University (2015)
• M.S. Agricultural and Biological Engineering, Purdue University (2011)
• B.S. Biological Engineering, University of Arkansas (2009)

Research Interests Rebecca’s work addresses human-induced environmental challenges, particularly in agricultural landscapes. She develops models to evaluate land management impacts on hydrology and water quality, with a focus on stakeholder engagement and climate resilience. Her research integrates remote sensing, watershed modeling, and policy analysis to support sustainable solutions for urbanization, food production, and ecosystem services.

Grants & Service She leads/co-leads projects such as the NSF-funded Science and Technologies for Phosphorus Sustainability (STEPS) Center and collaborates on Army Corps initiatives to enhance infrastructure resilience. She serves on the Journal of Hydrology editorial board and professional associations like the American Society of Agricultural & Biological Engineers.

Labs & Teams Her lab (muenichlab.com) includes researchers like Danica Schaffer-Smith (Research Assistant Professor) and students such as Emma Bonham (Ph.D.). The team explores topics like CAFO impacts, urban agriculture, and climate adaptation through interdisciplinary approaches.