Research
Currently, I investigate the interactions and dynamics of fluid flow within coastal salt marsh creeks and vegetation. I use both field observations and computational models to explore and tackle these issues. Both theoretical and applied physics play a role in determining the dominant factors for inundation and drainage of salt marshes.
Please keep an eye out for upcoming publications of my dissertation work.
(updated 1/30/23)
Field observations
Salt marshes are known to protect coastlines and coastal communities from flooding and storm surge. The mechanisms and processes of protection, however, are not well understood. My research explores the hydrodynamics of salt marshes to help elucidate these processes. One aspect is collecting data from marshes directly. For four field seasons, we have deployed sensors to measure water levels, currents, temperature, salinity, wind properties, and more in the creek and vegetation of a marsh complex on Connecticut's coast.
Computational & numerical modeling
In combination with observations, models and simulations can elucidate complex dynamics. We primarily use the Finite Volume Coastal/Community Ocean Model (FVCOM) for modeling efforts. As well as simplified numerical models in Python or MATLAB. These models will be tuned to represent realistic marsh conditions for geometry, bathymetry, tides, and drag coefficients.
Data analysis & coding with Python
Initially, I learned and used MATLAB for all my data analysis. Now, I have integrated and use python, the popular open source coding language. I utilize Jupyter notebooks and a variety of scientific and oceanographic packages developed by the python community. I am learning new ways to improve my graphics and make data storage and access easier. If you are hesitant to use python, there are many resources for beginners and I highly recommend it.
BELOW: Preliminary air pressure measurements from November 2019 collected with a Campbell Scientific ClimaVUE meteorological sensor (red) and a barometric pressure logger (yellow). The other data are from stations maintained by NOAA (green) and USGS (blue). Use the right hand side bar to navigate and interact with the data.