Dr. Pousali Pathak
Postdoctoral Research Fellow
Research: Understanding the source, water-rock interactions, redox state, and biogeochemistry of major and trace elements (organic and inorganic contaminants) in the surface and sub-surface aquatic systems with the application of traditional and non-traditional stable isotopes (C, O, H, S, N, Mo) and radio-isotope (Sr).
Tom Varner
PhD student, Environmental Science and Engineering
PI: Dr. Saugata Datta
Characterizing the Development and Chemical Processes of Permeable Natural Reactive Barriers along the Meghna River, Bangladesh
Tom’s current research explores the mobility of arsenic from the sediments surrounding the Meghna River in Bangladesh. Tom is utilizing a phenomenon known as a Natural Reactive Barrier (NRB) to treat and prevent cross contamination in the river and aquifer.
Ashley Aguilar
MS student, Geosciences
PI: Dr. Saugata Datta
Understanding Processes of Hydrothermal Origin of As and F in the Independence Basin, Mexico
Ashley’s current research is focused on water contamination in Central Mexico. This study specifically investigates trace elements of arsenic and fluoride and their link to temperature release into the groundwater from a geothermal source. Ashley is also volunteering with the San Antonio River Authority by building post assisted log structures ("beaver" dams) to reduce erosion along the Medina River.
Fabiola Diaz Flores Estrada
MS student, Environmental Science
PI: Dr. Allison Veach
Influence of Wastewater Effluent on the Freshwater Microbiome of a Suburban Stream Ecosystem
Fabiola's research aims to dissect how point sources of wastewater effluent, varying in nutrient and microbial composition, alter Cibolo Creek, a suburban stream located in Boerne, TX, algal and bacterial dominance, energy flow, and biofilm microbiomes spatially over time. Her work will provide an important knowledge gap regarding linkages between carbon dynamics and the microbial taxa which mediate said dynamics in semi-arid ecosystems which require human intervention for flow maintenance.
Jason Kent
MS student, Environmental Science
PI: Dr. Jeffrey Hutchinson
Retention Pond Oil and Grease Analysis
A group of scientists at UTSA are studying roadside retention ponds to examine stormwater runoff. As part of this effort, trapped oil and grease in stormwater is being evaluated to determine retention ponds' effectiveness at capturing toxic material which would otherwise migrate into the recharge zone for the Edwards Aquifer. The study will address both naturally vegetated and man-made retention ponds to gauge their pollution collection efficiency, looking at various traffic levels, geographic considerations, weather conditions, and similar influences on stormwater collection. Preliminary results are expected by summer 2021.
Ruben Olivares, Jr.
MS student, Geosciences
PI: Dr. Saugata Datta
Water Quality and Health in US-Mexico Border Region in Texas
Ruben's research focuses on determining the concentrations of various inorganic and organic contaminants in the water sources to understand underlying geochemical processes that influence the water chemistry and contaminant mobility.
David Roberts
MS student, Environmental Science
PI: Dr. Allison Veach
Belowground Microbial Activity and Structural Responses to Stormwater Infiltration Berms
David's research explores how implementation of stormwater infiltration berms impacts soil microbiomes and carbon flow. He is also performing greenhouse experiments to understand how water availability impacts mycorrhizal fungi associated with dominant grass species (KR bluestem, little bluestem) in urban grassland habitats.
