Hydrogeology is the study of water in geologic materials. Hydrogeologists evaluate the flow of water through geologic materials and the chemistry of water found in the subsurface. Ground water cannot usually be observed and wells are used to collect water samples and measure the hydraulic potential in geologic materials. In addition to data collection typically utilizing monitoring wells, hydrogeologists also apply a variety of other tools; including computer models, laboratory-based experiments, and geophysical instruments, to evaluate ground-water systems.
The hydrogeology program within the School of Earth and Climate Sciences at the University of Maine is led by Andrew Reeve. Information on Reeve's research and teaching activities can be reviewed by using the tabs at the top of this page. U.Maine offers an excellent environment to pursue an advanced degree in hydrogeology or other aspects of environmental geoscience. Courses directly related to hydrology are offered in Earth and Climate Sciences and Civil and Environmental Engineering. Other faculty in my department pursuing environmental geoscience research include Dr. Amanda Olsen (Geochemistry) and Dr. Sean Smith (River Geomorphology and Hydrology). The University of Maine's Mitchell Center integrates a network of researchers with a common interest in water resources. My interests are slanted toward the computer simulation of ground-water flow and transport processes with a focus on wetland ecosystems. Recently this work has included a stronger surface water component.
I am always interested in good M.S. and Ph.D. students with strong quantitative and computer skills. Please forward inquires about current opportunities to Dr. Andrew Reeve (asreeve at maine.edu, School of Earth and Climate Sciences, University of Maine, Orono, Maine 04469).