Our research focus on a wide range of applications of environmental fluid dynamics. We use both observations and modeling to understand turbulence, particle-fluid interactions, and transport phenomena. Our primary research subjects are within water resources, including natural water bodies and engineered water systems. We also collaborate with scientists and physicians to study broader fluid problems.
Current research topics:
Natural seeps of hydrocarbon bubbles from shallow to deep seas (NSF)
Developing new instrument to better understand marine seeps (NSF)
Turbulence structures in the Missouri River and their influences on transport of fish eggs and larvae (USGS)
Applications of small UAVs in hydraulic measurements (MoDOT)
Understanding mechanisms of environmental transmission of avian flu (USGS)
High-frequency echosounder measurements of bubbles in water columns (ONR)
Bubble bursting and transport of waterborne contaminants (EPA - Missouri Water Center)
Wind-driven seed dispersal and the effect of the seed morphology
Funded by the Missouri Department of Transportation, we are conducting extensive field studies to evaluate best practices for using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in hydraulic measurements. This work involves measuring water surface elevation, flow depth, and surface velocity to estimate stream discharge. The findings will support the planning, design, and management of infrastructure projects such as bridges and improve flood risk assessments. UAVs offer a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional ground-based and in-stream methods, particularly during high-flow or flood conditions.
We employ airborne LiDAR and photogrammetry to survey streams across a range of drainage areas and discharge levels, assessing the capabilities and limitations of UAV-based hydraulic measurements. This project also incorporates a comprehensive literature review and analysis, which provides us with critical context and insights to guide our fieldwork and data interpretation.