Tess Wynn Thompson

Tess Wynn Thompson is an Associate Professor and Extension Specialist in Biological Systems Engineering at Virginia Tech. Her work bridges ecological engineering research with practical applications in stream and wetland restoration, urban stormwater management, and environmental policy.

• Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA
• Biological Systems Engineering Department

Education:

• Ph.D., Biological Systems Engineering, Virginia Tech (2004)
• M.S., Civil Engineering, North Carolina State University (1995)
• B.S., Agricultural Engineering, Virginia Tech (1992)

Research Focus:
Dr. Thompson's ecological engineering program addresses critical challenges in stream and wetland restoration through integrated field, laboratory, and computational studies. Her work directly informs statewide stormwater recommendations and contributes to the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration goals. Key areas include:

• Streambank erosion mechanics
• Root-soil-microbe interactions
• Climate change adaptation in urban watersheds
• Watershed-scale thermal pollution mitigation
• Jet erosion test methodology
• Vegetated streambank stability

Recent Publications:
Her research demonstrates how organic matter amendments enhance streambank erosion resistance and how riparian vegetation quantitatively improves channel stability. Her work connects engineering practices with ecological outcomes, particularly in the Chesapeake Bay watershed context.

Scientific Awards:

• Fellow, American Ecological Engineering Society (2024)
• Turner Fellow of Engineering (2015-2020)
• Outstanding Faculty Member, Alpha Epsilon (2005)
• Graduate Dissertation Award of Merit, Gamma Sigma Delta (2005)

Teaching & Extension:
She teaches advanced courses in fluvial geomorphology and stream restoration. Her extension program addresses stream health challenges from climate change and urbanization, focusing on the Chesapeake Bay TMDL requirements and developing training programs for technical service providers.

Research Funding:
Current projects include grants from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and Chesapeake Bay Trust for stream restoration effectiveness studies. Past funding from Virginia Tech Institute for Critical Technology and Applied Science supported thermal effects on erosion research.