Understanding how and why coastlines change over time, especially in response to anthropogenic forcings like climate change, motivates me both scientifically and as an educator. As a scientist, my research interests are in coastal processes and geomorphology. My current research is understanding the sediment transport mechanisms operating on the modern Huanghe (Yellow River) Delta in Shandong, China. Specifically, I am studying the dynamics of sediment import to a mudflat that has rapidly developed within an artificially abandoned river channel. This site is particularly interesting to study because the landscape is shaped by the interaction between natural processes and human-induced changes.

As an educator, I strive to communicate basic scientific principles through place-based education and guided inquiry techniques. Too much of our country’s population does not have an opportunity to study Earth and environmental sciences formally, which can contribute to a distrust of the scientific process. I believe everyone should have a basic understanding of how climate change may affect our coastlines so that they can make informed decisions. Through informal learning programs, including those at conservation areas, Americans can learn about the natural world and humanity’s place in it.    

I chose to study at BC because the Earth & Environmental Sciences department has a tight-knit community of committed graduate students who support and learn from each other. I also had the rare opportunity to work with an accomplished female oceanographer and role model, Gail Kineke, on a unique and challenging research project.