Geomorphology and Seismology group

Providing flexible and quantitative geologic consulting to a variety of projects. Proven time and resource management skills, use and maintenance of specialized equipment, and development and adaptation of unique methodologies while staying aware of state-of-the-art geomorphologic techniques.Independently carry out detailed surficial and subsurface investigations. Produce reports to inform decision making. Experience includes post-earthquake reconnaissance (fault rupture and complex distributed displacement measurements), field work in rugged terrain (geomorphologic and structural geology mapping), geological sampling, high-accuracy GPS (data collection and processing), GIS, digital and cloud-based mapping, lidar, UAV-based data (collection, processing, analysis of Structure from Motion photogrammetry (SfM)), remote sensing, dataset quality reporting, database verification, well logging, geosteering, geologic cross section and well log correlations. Specific areas of expertise include geomorphology (fluvial, hillslope, and tectonic methods), interpreting landscape features with recognition of geomorphic process-oriented units, geologic hazards, terrain analysis, soils, hydrology, climate, and wildfire.

Responsible for writing, editing, and reviewing complex geological reports related to geologic hazards, earthen dams, and mining infrastructure which were technically authoritative and actionable. Originated, contributed to, and interpreted a range of report types (i.e. technical, regulatory, policy, project proposals) independently and with senior specialists. Planned and executed field work within USA and internationally as in-country representative. Coordinated with team to advance internal and cross-organizational projects. Monitored small-scale surface changes using lidar, SfM photogrammetry, and other methods to assess the stability of natural and engineered features. Checked, interpreted, and integrated datasets from a suite of hydrologic, geophysical, and engineering instruments. Performed landscape deformation and time-series analyses using Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR), Ground-based Synthetic Aperture Radar (GB-SAR), lidar, and SfM techniques. Conducted field work for probabilistic seismic hazard assessment (PSHA) under rigorous regulatory requirements at a nuclear facility including collecting geophysical data for Spectral Analysis of Surface Waves (SASW), Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves (MASW), and downhole shear wave velocity measurements. Produced inputs for 2D and 3D slope stability models. Produced figures, geologic cross sections, and other displays to illustrate and interpret data. Streamlined monthly reports to improve efficiency and trained colleagues. Made determinations and adequate evaluations based on datasets, reports, and other project information.

Rowing on the Salmon and Snake Rivers, cooking gourmet meals, and providing geologic insights.

Thesis title: Partitioned by Process; Measuring Post-Fire Channel and Hillslope Erosion with SfM PhotogrammetryFirst author in Earth Surface Processes and Landforms (ESPL): https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/esp.4728Graduate Certificate: Geographic Information AnalysisSkills and knowledge areas: Geomorphology, analysis of high-resolution topography, lidar, change detection tied to physical processes, surficial mapping, mass flux uncertainty quantification, Quaternary geochronology methods including radiocarbon and optically-stimulated luminescence (OSL), paleoflood hydrology, remote sensing including spectral analyses and classification methods, geologic structure and stratigraphy, hydrology and hydrogeology, hydrologic modeling, paleoseismology, fire-adapted ecosystem issues, post-fire hazards and landscape response, and environmental and conservation planning processes.Applicable experience: Developed and refined detailed investigation with independent research applying new methods. Presented data in tabular and graphic forms. Prepared maps and figures for publication. First-authored article on thesis topic in peer-reviewed scientific journal. Wrote, edited, and synthesized scientific material to communicate findings to multiple audience types. Made presentations at department, conference, and professional meetings. Prepared and analyzed samples (sediment particle size, radiocarbon) in laboratory setting.Selected coursework: Hydrology, Hydrogeology, Fluvial Geomorphology, Field Geomorphology, Remote Sensing, GIS Analysis, Geostatistics, Soils, Aerial Vehicle Surveying, Terroir Studies

Performed mudlogging and geosteering on oil and coal-bed methane wells in the San Juan and Permian basins. Experience with reverse-circulation and core drilling methods. Collected and analyzed subsurface geologic data using specialized instrumentation and proprietary software. Created a software user manual. Correlated well logs to subsurface geology with lithologic, stratigraphic, resistivity, gamma, and other methods. Provided time-sensitive geosteering directions to optimize performance. Created technical reports with specific time requirements to convey complex information to clients, coworkers, and drilling rig operators. Operated safely and excelled in hazardous work conditions.