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My research interests lie at the nexus of geohazards and society.
My research aims to advance our understanding and prediction of coastal hazards, particularly tsunami and storm impacts, through numerical modeling, remote-sensing, and field-based studies. My work spans from developing sophisticated numerical models to conducting comprehensive multi-year field campaigns, providing a robust framework for assessing and mitigating risks to coastal communities. This integrated approach enhances the accuracy and reliability of hazard predictions, ultimately contributing to community resilience and safety. Please see below for examples of my research program.
Coastal-Related Field Campaigns and Field Methods
Field Approaches
The core of my work was based on high-resolution field data collection - longitudinal surveying and rapid pre-/post-event surveys. This work in the past has encapsulated using sensors (IMUs, pressure sensors, etc.), remote-sensing (GPS, RTK GNSS, and UAS surveys), and lidar (terrstrial, aerial). Part of my research interests include developing custom-developed workflows for low-cost, replicable methods for coastal assessments (e.g., previous work with iPhone lidar or using Apple Airtags).
Numerical Modeling Approaches
My research involves using shallow water equation-based approaches and the Clawpack software (GeoClaw, D-Claw) to model the flow conditions associated with the large-scale fluid flow hazards (e.g., dam failure, various types of tsunamis).
Example on the right of modeling Cascadia Subduction Zone L1 (large) using GeoClaw software
I also worked with a coupled ADCIRC + SWAN regional modeling outputs through collaboration, which included simulation of storm surge and wave climate conditions during boulder movement (and non-movement events). These models were compared with onshore in-situ sensor data.
Global Applications: ISROC - Inundation Signatures on Rocky Coastlines
The Inundation Signatures on Rocky Coastlines (ISROC) Network was formed in July 2021 to serve as a focal point for researchers, educators, and students to understand Coastal Boulder Deposits (CBD) and the storms and tsunamis that generate them. Since CBDs are often the only remaining evidence from events otherwise lost to history, they can form a long-term record of extreme inundation, helping us to learn about storm and seismic climatology.
One of my interests is in reevaluating previously interpreted deposits. Another interest, aligning with ISROC's efforts, is to collect and standardize existing data on CBD from storms and tsunamis. This resulted in mentoring an undergraduate researcher who published a global database of CBD.
Emerging Technology: Extended Reality and Virtual Reality for Field Trips & Labs
Storms Move Coastal Boulders: Virtual Field Trip (Spero et al., under review, JDSE)
A side interest of mine involves science communication and virtual field trips. How can we combine existing datasets collected in the field and use those to inform a virtual field trip (VFT)?
This allows for an educational module and students to learn about field reconnaissance, research, and case studies without prohibitive travel costs or safety concerns.
CLICK HERE to access the WebGL version of the Teton Dam simulation
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