Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences

New Mathematical Geocscience Chapter Created

August 28, 2009

Chapter president Ian Crocker and chairperson Dr. Ute Herzfeld have announced the inception of a newly formed International Association for Mathematical Geosciences (IAMG) student chapter at the University of Colorado at Boulder. The chapter is comprised of students from the engineering, applied mathematics, and geography departments. The foremost mission of the chapter is to unify and engage undergraduate and graduate students who have an interest in geosciences. Regularly scheduled seminars will provide a forum for students from different disciplines to discuss their ongoing research efforts and to learn from each other's specific area of study. Group activities and outings will capitalize on Colorado's spectacular setting to study an array of geologic phenomenon while enjoying each other's company.

The student members are involved in a wide array of research topics that will facilitate constructive learning from one another. Geomathematic principles are being adapted to aid in the communication and control of unmanned aircraft (UA). Satellite and UA remotely sensed data are being analyzed to investigate the spatial and temporal variability of the cryosphere. And, simulations of surface elevation and hydrologic conductivity are being carried out to improve our understanding of these phenomenon, among others.

The CU chapter has held several meetings to discuss events and seminars. Ongoing and future activities include a seminar series, where students and senior scientist present topics relevant to their research, and visits to companies who are generally involved in the field of geomathematics. There are also plans for a number of field outings, such as geologic excursions, data collection experiments with UA, and snow geophysical data collection. Of course, these events will include hiking, camping, skiing and snowshoeing "on the side" to promote group camaraderie while reveling in the beauty of the natural world.

The CU IAMG chapter officers are:
Ian Crocker, president
Bruce Wallin, secretary
Ling Shen, treasurer
Ute Herzfeld, faculty advisor