William Johnson

William Johnson is a Professor in the Department of Geology & Geophysics at the University of Utah's College of Engineering, with a 30-year track record in colloid transport research and trace element biogeochemistry. He directs advanced facilities including ICP-MS and light scattering laboratories while maintaining active collaborations in environmental engineering, hydrology, and contaminant dynamics.

• Current research focuses on multi-scale colloid transport mechanisms in porous media
• Investigates mercury and selenium cycling in aquatic systems like Great Salt Lake
• Develops groundwater remediation strategies for mining-impacted environments

His recent publications demonstrate theoretical advances in colloid filtration theory, including interception history models and nanoscale heterogeneity impacts. Over $5M in research grants from NSF, EPA, and state agencies support his work on contaminant transport, with particular emphasis on mercury isotope tracing and polymer-modified remediation materials. Mentoring 12 PhD and 34 MSc students, he maintains active teaching roles in graduate geochemistry and contaminant hydrology courses.

• Fundamental contributions to non-exponential transport behavior
• Established mercury source apportionment frameworks for saline lakes
• Developed lateral channel filtration for placer mining mitigation

His research website (www.wpjohnsongroup.utah.edu/research.html) provides additional details about current projects and instrumentation capabilities.