Environmental Geophysics Research and Development

Other: Environmental Geophysics 

National Exposure Research Laboratory (NERL)

Newport or Corvallis, OR

6 - 12 months

Environmental geophysics opportunities are offered in web site content development, model development and testing, laboratory geophysical experimentation, and field work involving applications of geophysical methods to subsurface processes, site characterization, contaminant fate and transport, and remediation monitoring.

Several research opportunities are available in environmental geophysics at EPA’s National Exposure Research Laboratory (NERL) in Las Vegas, NV. One option involves engaging with EPA web designers who are responsible for the development of geophysical content for EPA's Environmental Geophysics web presence. This project provides the opportunity to learn and engage in research translation, development of a geophysical method decision support system, and applications for forward (predictive) geophysical modeling.  Good writing skills and an understanding of most geophysical methods are assets for this project. Other projects include geophysical field surveys, laboratory experimentation, data analysis, and model development for the geophysical characterization of subsurface hydrologic processes applicable to contaminant fate and transport, landfill processes, and engineered green infrastructure systems. Experience with common field geophysical methods and data processing is advantageous for this project area.

The successful candidate could participate in all of these areas or focus on one depending on the candidate's interest, skills and the area one would like to professionally grow and improve.

Through these projects the student will have access to EPA's research facilities in Las Vegas, field sites in Southern Nevada, potentially remotely located sites, a comprehensive inventory of near surface geophysical equipment, software for data collection and processing, and the testing and evaluation of new geophysical equipment.

This opportunity is written rather broadly to encourage applicants to express their area of interest and area they would like to develop or learn within environmental geophysics. The EPA mentor has several ongoing projects, broadly described above, which would serve as avenues for Fellows to learn and grow in their careers.

These environmental geophysics projects offer a broad range of professional development opportunities including: technical transfer through web content writing and presentation, the application of state of the art field geophysical equipment, developing expertise in software for processing and analysis, and experience in new software development and testing. These projects also offer collaboration and networking opportunities with other geophysicists within the federal government.

Dale Werkema (werkema.d@epa.gov)