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Water Research Specialties

Aquatic Ecology & Toxicology

Studying and understanding the complex relationships between animals, microorganisms, nutrients and other chemicals in water helps us find ways to minimize our impact on the environment.

Groundwater & Hydrogeology

Groundwater hydrologists (also known as hydrogeologists) study the movement, availability, and chemistry (quality) of groundwater resources.

Hydrology & Water Modeling

Hydrologists work to understand and predict water flow using computer models so that this resource can be better managed for everyone who uses it.


Water Quality & Chemistry

The amount of minerals and other matter dissolved in water determines how that water can be used.

Watersheds / Remote Sensing / GIS

Water research is often focused around watersheds and includes management and modeling of water quality and quantity. Remote sensing tools and geographic information systems (GIS) are invaluable in watershed-scale research.

Water Resources & Climate Change

The Earth's climate controls the availability of water for agricultural producers, energy providers, water suppliers, natural resource managers and others.

Water Availability & Conservation

Methods for conserving water in agriculture and urban areas will become even more important as our world population increases.


Water & Society

Water research must include water policy, economic incentives and other human dimensions to provide realistic science and practical solutions to today’s problems.

Research Specialties