Research

 

The Department of River-Coastal Science and Engineering at Tulane University is an interdisciplinary hub dedicated to solving the complex environmental and engineering challenges of the 21st century. Our research initiatives integrate the study of hydrological processes, sediment dynamics, and coastal hazards with cutting-edge technology and sustainable engineering solutions. From the banks of the Mississippi River to deltaic systems worldwide, we are committed to advancing the science necessary to protect vulnerable coastal communities, restore vital ecosystems, and manage water resources in a changing climate.

Coastal Wetland under a pink sunset sky

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Areas of Concentration

Satellite view of Mississippi River Delta with murky water meeting the ocean.
Coastal Hydrodynamics & Delta Management

This research area focuses on the physical processes of coastal, estuarine, and deltaic systems. Faculty utilize advanced numerical modeling and field observations to study water circulation, sediment transport, and saltwater dynamics to support the sustainable management and restoration of deltas worldwide.

Faculty: Mead A. Allison, R. C. (Charlie) Berger, Kelin Hu, Jeff Melby, Ehab Meselhe, Brendan Yuill

Small boat drifting over a vibrant coral reef.
Sea Level Science & Coastal Hazards

Researchers in this field investigate the drivers of global and regional sea-level rise, storm surges, and ocean tides. By reconstructing historical sea levels and modeling future projections, this group provides critical insights into coastal flooding risks and community vulnerability in a changing climate.

Faculty: Sönke Dangendorf, Kelin Hu, Ehab Meselhe

3D simulation of a flooded city with control panels and signs.
Hydroinformatics & Environmental AI

This area leverages cutting-edge artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and cyberinfrastructure to address complex environmental challenges. Research includes the development of digital twins for disaster simulation, intelligent information systems, and the application of machine learning to streamflow forecasting and environmental monitoring.

Faculty: Ibrahim Demir, Ehab Meselhe, Annalisa Molini

Fluvial Geomorphology & Sediment Dynamics 

This group studies how water, sediment, and vegetation co-evolve to shape rivers, floodplains, and deltas. Using tools ranging from radiochemical geochronology to laboratory flume experiments, faculty explore landscape evolution and the "source-to-sink" dispersal of sediments in large river systems.

Faculty: Mead A. Allison, David S. Biedenharn, Matthew J. Czapiga, Barbara A. Kleiss, Ehab Meselhe 

A field of light yellow lotus flowers and large green lily pads in a lake.
River Ecology & Ecohydrology 

This research examines the vital connections between the hydrological cycle, vegetation, and aquatic food webs. Faculty work to understand energy flow in riverine ecosystems, the impact of hydrology on fisheries and biodiversity, and the physiological responses of plants to environmental stressors.

Faculty: K. Jack Killgore, Barbara A. Kleiss, Annalisa Molini, Jennifer C. Murphy, John L. Sabo

River Engineering & Restoration Science  

Focusing on nature-based solutions and sustainable infrastructure, this area applies engineering principles to river restoration, bank stabilization, and wetland creation. The research integrates physical and ecological processes to design resilient systems that mitigate the impacts of human activity and climate change.

Faculty: David S. Biedenharn, Matthew J. Czapiga, K. Jack Killgore, Barbara A. Kleiss, Ehab Meselhe 

Wispy white clouds drift across a bright blue sky.
Climate Dynamics & the Hydrological Cycle

Faculty in this area analyze land-atmosphere interactions and the global water cycle to project the impacts of climate change on water resource availability. Research includes studying rainfall extremes, aridity, and the teleconnections between ocean circulation and regional hydrology.

Faculty: Sönke Dangendorf, Annalisa Molini, John L. Sabo 

Hurricane over the Gulf of Mexico.
Disaster Resilience & Early Warning Systems 

This interdisciplinary field develops predictive tools and real-time monitoring systems to enhance resilience against natural disasters. By integrating hydrodynamic models with AI-driven analytics, researchers create early warning platforms for floods, hurricanes, and other environmental hazards.

Faculty: Sönke Dangendorf, Ibrahim Demir, Charlie Hess, Kelin Hu, Ehab Meselhe 

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Undergraduate Research

We are always on the lookout for talented and curious undergrads interested in researching our world.

Faculty contact: Ehab Meselhe

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Steel truss bridge over a river at sunset with a barge passing underneath.

Xavier-Tulane Gulf Scholars Program


The Xavier-Tulane Gulf Scholars Program (GSP) helps prepare undergraduate students as the next generation to address critical challenges in the Gulf South related to environmental justice, coastal restoration, the energy transition, and more. Through internships, volunteer activities, research experiences, and coursework, students in this program gain knowledge of and experience within efforts to address these challenges.

Learn More