Available Research Themes
Theme 1 – Vadose Zone Modeling & Hydrogeophysics
This student will develop vadose zone models for western Kansas using soil moisture observations, geophysical data (ERI, NMR), and remote sensing (e.g., GRACE, SMAP). The project focuses on understanding unsaturated-zone processes and improving satellite-based hydrologic estimates.
Theme 2 – Groundwater Flow & Contaminant Transport Modeling
This student will build MODFLOW-based groundwater models for Kansas Groundwater Management Districts (GMDs) and couple them with contaminant transport simulations to study nitrate–uranium co-contamination. Field opportunities include groundwater sampling from private/public wells.
Project assignments and study designs will be tailored to align with the student’s academic background, research interests, and long-term career goals.
Funding
Students will be supported through Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA) with competitive stipends and summer funding.
Short-listed candidates will be invited for a Zoom interview and then encouraged to apply to the K-State Graduate School. We welcome applicants in their final undergraduate year or recent graduates in geology, geoscience, or related fields.
