Teaching

GE 385: Geological Engineering Data Analysis

Introduction to and application of statistical inference and probability theory to analysis of geological engineering problems and data. This includes graphical data analysis and sampling, elements of set theory, elements of probability theory; random variables and expectation, simulation, and statistical inference. These concepts are applied to a wide range of geological engineering problems using both existing and student-generated Python code.

GE 483: Geological Engineering Slope Stability Analysis

Evaluating the stability of slopes is an important and interesting aspect of geological and geotechnical engineering. It requires an understanding of the geological factors that affect the stability of slopes and how they may contribute to the manner in which a slope fails. This course provides an introduction into the process of assessing the stability of natural and engineered slopes. This includes site investigation, soil and rock mass strength properties, infuence of groundwater, different methods of stability assessment for varying geologic materials, slope monitoring, and slope stabilization.

GE 745: Numerical Methods for Geomaterials

The mechanical response of geological materials is both complex and highly variable—the characteristics of the solid material, such as soil or rock, will greatly influence its mechanical properties while interaction with fluid can have a significant impact on the overall material behavior. In this class, we will discuss different numerical methods that can model the dynamic response of geological materials, and when it is appropriate to apply them. For example, can the material be modeled as a continuum or is it more appropriate to consider the discrete behavior of individual particles? These numerical methods are implemented in Python, though students are welcome to use any programming language they are most comfortable with.