I’m a geologist at the USGS Geologic Hazards Science Center in Golden, CO. I joined the Landslide Hazards Program in February 2022. I use numerical models, remote sensing data, and field observations to support hazard assessments for landslides and associated processes.
I support a wide variety of research related to understanding and quantifying landslide hazards, including numerical modeling, geophysical and seismic investigation, geospatial analysis, and field studies. I work primarily on landslides and associated hazards in Prince William Sound, Alaska. I am also interested in hazard emergency management, science communication, and using geospatial information to communicate risk.
Before I came to the USGS, I worked as a contractor producing digital elevation data from lidar for the USGS 3D Elevation Program (3DEP) and NOAA’s Coastal Mapping Program. I also worked for the National Park Service evaluating geologic hazard risk in high-visitation areas and studying the ecology of tidewater glaciers, and in the environmental field analyzing contaminant transport and attenuation in groundwater.
Professional Experience
2022 – Present: Geologist, USGS Geologic Hazards Science Center, Golden, CO
2019 – 2022: Topobathymetric Lidar Production Manager, Dewberry, Denver, CO
2018: Physical Science Technician, Kenai Fjords National Park, Seward, AK
2016 – 2018: Senior Geologist, Haley & Aldrich, Cleveland, OH
2014 – 2015: Guest Scientist, Denali National Park & Preserve, AK
2012 – 2015: Research Assistant, Polar Earth Observing Network (POLENET), Columbus, OH and Antarctica
Education and Certifications
The Ohio State University, MS, 2015, Geological Sciences
The College of Wooster, BA, 2012, Geology
Affiliations and Memberships*
Geological Society of America
American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing
Honors and Awards
STAR Award, National Park Service, 2018
University Fellowship, The Ohio State University, 2012
Robert W. McDowell Prize in Geology, The College of Wooster, 2012
Karl Ver Steeg Prize in Geology and Geography, The College of Wooster, 2011
*Disclaimer: Listing outside positions with professional scientific organizations on this Staff Profile are for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement of those professional scientific organizations or their activities by the USGS, Department of the Interior, or U.S. Government