Tag: Geohazards

From Ecuadorian Volcanoes to Global Impact: Dr. Gustavo Bejar-Lopez’s Journey Through Geology

On the steep slope of a volcano, Gustavo Bejar-Lopez wears a helmet and respirator mask while crouching to collect volcanic material samples in rocky, ash-covered terrain.
Gustavo Bejar-Lopez collecting volcanic material samples.

If you ever wondered what it looks like when curiosity, grit, and global collaboration converge, let us introduce you to Dr. Gustavo Bejar-Lopez. As of August 8, 2025, Gustavo completed his final defense under the supervision of Dr. Greg Waite, Dr. Rudiger Escobar Wolf, with Dr. Luke Bowman, Dr. Snehamoy Chatterjee, and Dr. Jeffrey Johnson (Boise State), serving as committee members.

As a child in Ecuador, Gustavo Bejar-Lopez watched the eruptions of Tungurahua with fascination. A curiosity that led him to Michigan Tech’s GMES program to study volcanic hazards.

For his doctoral research, Gustavo focused on lahars, fast-moving volcanic mudflows, at Guatemala’s Volcán de Fuego. Using seismic monitoring, rainfall data, video observations, and computer models, he revealed how lahars generate distinct seismic signatures as they travel. He then developed a machine learning detection system to identify them in real time, improving early-warning potential for at-risk communities. His presentation title and abstract for the final Ph.D. research defense are listed below.

During his time at MTU, Gustavo earned the Outstanding Scholar Award, a Finishing Fellowship, and graduate certificates in Natural Hazards & Disaster Risk Reduction and Geoinformatics. He also won First Place in the 3MT competition and secured a National Geographic Explorer Grant to mentor students in the field. His work has been published in Scientific Reports through an NSF-funded collaboration on infrasound detection of lahars.

While my work was related to the technical aspect of detecting and modeling hazards, it has important implications for the lives of people who are exposed to or affected by these hazards every day. I plan to continue developing new tools and expanding my knowledge of these geologic processes, thereby diversifying my expertise to include other types of hazards, beyond the focus of my PhD.”—Gustavo Bejar-Lopez

Dr. Gustavo Bejar-Lopez, Dr. Alexander Bartel, and Dr. Gregory Waite stand together on the summit of a volcano with rocky terrain and clouds in the background.
On the volcano summit, Dr. Gustavo Bejar-Lopez, Dr. Beth Bartel, and Dr. Greg Waite pause for a photo during their field research expedition.

Dr. Bejar-Lopez’s story is more than an academic journey. It’s a testament to how one person’s passion can ripple through continents, classrooms, and communities. Whether facing volcanoes in Ecuador or Guatemala, his commitment remains the same: to bring knowledge, technology, and humanity together in the service of safety and resilience.

Congratulations, Dr. Gustavo Bejar-Lopez! Your dedication ensures that the communities living in the shadow of volcanoes are better prepared for the challenges they face.

Title: Water and Fuego: An Interdisciplinary Characterization of Lahar Activity on Volcán de Fuego, Guatemala

Abstract: Lahars are a type of volcanic hazard common in tropical stratovolcanoes. They occur when large amounts of water remobilize unconsolidated volcanic sediments, forming a mixture that flows violently downstream. In the case of Volcán de Fuego, Guatemala, lahars are mainly triggered by intense precipitation during the local rainy season. With dozens of these flows reported on Fuego during the rainy months, they pose a significant risk to people living near active lahar channels. This study aims to characterize critical aspects of lahar activity on Fuego using geophysical records, rainfall measurements, video observations, and computational simulations that help constrain the initiation and propagation mechanisms of these flows. This work shows that measured seismic energy increases and signal frequency content decreases while lahars move from proximal to distal areas of the volcano’s flanks. However, in the long term, seismic characteristics remain unchanged. This information supported the development of a machine learning-based framework to automatically detect lahar activity using geophysical monitoring. These results, combined with rainfall information, also allowed us to describe the control of precipitation on lahar activity. Statistically, rainfall at higher elevations is highly correlated with seismic parameters associated with flow size (e.g., cumulative power amplitude) farther downstream and least correlated with spectral characteristics of lahar signals (e.g., dominant frequencies), meaning rainfall alone is not sufficient to predict internal flow dynamics. This is consistent with a set of hydrologic outputs showing the significance that rainfall at higher elevations has in model accuracy. These results improve our knowledge of such ubiquitous types of volcanic processes and related hazards and can potentially be relevant for the development of mitigation strategies benefiting the communities around Fuego.

Aerial view of a lahar moving down a volcano, showing a muddy, debris-filled flow cutting through the landscape.
From above, a lahar (a fast-moving mixture of volcanic ash, rocks, and water) races down the volcanic slope, carving a path through the landscape.

In Memoriam: Professor Emeritus William (Bill) Rose

William (Bill) Rose

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Professor Emeritus William (Bill) Rose on July 18. A distinguished colleague, devoted mentor, treasured friend, and visionary community leader, Bill began his journey with the Department of Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences (GMES) in 1970, shortly after earning his PhD from Dartmouth College. He dedicated his entire 41-year faculty career to Michigan Tech and the Keweenaw community.

As department chair from 1990 to 1998, Bill led us through transformative growth, expanding graduate programs, increasing external research support, and integrating new technologies into geoscience education and outreach. He was instrumental in establishing signature programs such as the International Masters in Volcanology and Geotechniques (INVOGE) and the Peace Corps Master’s International program in Mitigation of Geologic Natural Hazards—initiatives that have significantly impacted our students and enhanced our global reputation.

Even in retirement, Bill remained deeply engaged, promoting public understanding of geoheritage and sharing his passion for science and culture with the broader community. His generosity, vision, and tireless mentorship have left an indelible mark on all who have had the privilege of knowing him. Many of his students returned decades later to reconnect, a testament to the lasting impact he had on their lives.

Our hearts go out to his wife, Nanno, his sons Christopher and Jason, and their families.

We recognize that no brief message can fully capture his profound impact or enduring legacy. In the coming days, we will share more information and plan a proper tribute to honor Bill’s life and contributions.

Department of Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences

Small but Mighty: GMES Department at Michigan Tech Earns AGU Bridge Program Recertification

The Michigan Technological University campus before sunset on a summer evening, as seen from the vantage point of Mont Ripley’s front yard with purple lupins in the foreground.
MTU campus before sunset on a summer evening, as seen from Mont Ripley’s front yard.

We are thrilled to announce that the Department of Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences (GMES) at Michigan Technological University has been awarded recertification in the prestigious American Geophysical Union (AGU) and Inclusive Graduate Education Network’s (IGEN) Bridge Program. This recognition underscores our commitment to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community in the Earth and space sciences.

The AGU Bridge Program plays a crucial role in broadening participation in geosciences by supporting underrepresented students as they pursue graduate studies. Through this partnership, our department continues to create an environment where all students can thrive, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to the field.

What does recertification mean? Recertification is a testament to the strength of our program and the dedication of our faculty, staff, and students. Acceptance decisions were based on a rigorous external review, annual reports, and evaluations by Bridge Program staff. These assessments highlighted the strengths of our application and offered valuable feedback to guide us in planning for the next five years.

Our renewed partnership extends through December 31, 2029. Along with the recertification, we’ve committed to:
– Mentorship Training—Faculty involved in the Bridge Program will undergo mentorship training to ensure we continue providing our students with the highest level of support.
– Student Support Through Graduation—We pledge to support all current and future students admitted through the Bridge Program, even beyond the duration of our partnership.

These new requirements align with the Bridge Program’s evolving practices and reinforce the shared mission to empower underrepresented students in geosciences.

This recertification is a significant milestone for a small department within a large engineering school. It reflects our ability to maintain high standards and our passion for cultivating an inclusive and supportive academic community. We are proud to stand alongside other Bridge Program institutions in advancing diversity and equity in the geosciences.

This achievement would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of the GMES faculty and staff, as well as the incredible students who make our department so vibrant and inspiring. Together, we are shaping the future of Earth and space sciences! Are you ready? Apply now.

GMES Student Spotlight Q&A: Aimee Zimmerman, PhD Geophysics 2027

GMES Student Spotlight Q&A: Aimee Zimmerman, MS Geophysics 2024, PhD Geophysics 2027
Hometown:
Mill Hall, Pennsylvania

After finding a strong sense of belonging, Aimee Zimmerman relocated to Michigan Tech to pursue her Master of Science in Geophysics in 2022. Two years later, her passion for her research led her to continue her academic journey, and she is now working toward a Ph.D. with graduate student advising from Dr. Greg Waite. Aimee wants to know how an earthquake stresses a volcanic eruption. She monitors volcanic activity worldwide using thermal satellite imaging to determine if earthquakes and seismic activity can tell us something about volcanoes. She offers her perspectives on MTU below. 

Popocatépetl is one of the volcanoes Aimee is studying.

Q: Why did you choose to attend MTU?

A: I visited in the spring of 2022, and it immediately felt like home. The community was so welcoming and generous. I attended MTU for my Masters degree and was allowed to continue my education. I decided to stay for my PhD and continue the research I started in my Masters

Q: Do you have a favorite class or professor so far?

A: I have thoroughly enjoyed taking classes on natural hazards and their social dynamics. Learning about the discrepancies in dealing with hazards and how we can mitigate disasters has been extremely helpful. 

Q: Are you in any clubs or groups on campus?

A: I am a part of InterVarsity, a Christian student organization. I lead a small group discussion with other graduate students

Q: What advice would you give to a future Husky?

A: Don’t solely exist to do homework and take exams. College is so much more than just classes, so get involved and branch out. Say yes to things, and you never know who you’ll meet or what you’ll get to experience

Q: What local activities do you enjoy outside of MTU?

A: I love to go rock hunting when the weather is nice. I have a rock tumbler, so finding rocks that polish nicely is always fun. I also love to volunteer for things involving my church. I am involved in the children’s ministry, so I get to spend time every week with pre-schoolers as they learn more about God 

Q: What is your favorite on-campus place to eat? Off-campus?

A: The cafe in the library has amazing coffee, and the yogurt parfaits are also great. Off-campus, my favorite is The Ambassador. The pizza is my favorite up here, and they have such a fantastic atmosphere

Q: How do you survive winter?

A: I love to read, so cozying up on my couch with a good book and a cup of tea is the only way I get through the cold nights. I also love going to hockey games, which makes weekends super fun.

Q: Have your post-graduation plans changed since coming to MTU? If so, how and why?

A: Yes. I never considered going into teaching at the college level, but I was given the opportunity to be a teaching assistant for an introduction to geology lab. I loved seeing the students grasp the material after explaining things to them. 


Celebrating Excellence: GMES Celebrates Student Achievements with Cookies and Cheers!

The Department of Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences (GMES) celebrated the achievements of our students and faculty at a recognition ceremony held on September 13, 2024, in the GMES atrium. We were delighted to welcome our special guests, David Adler (Geology ’82) and his wife, Martha. David has been an invaluable supporter of our American Institute of Professional Geologists (AIPG) student chapter, and this time, he joined us to present several AIPG awards.

We congratulated Konraad VanDyke (Geology ’26), honored with the Andrew Mozola Memorial Scholarship, and Natalie Sorensen (Geological Engineering ’26), who received the AIPG National Undergraduate Scholarship.

The AIPG student chapter was recognized with the 2023 Excellent Chapter Award, and certificates were presented to the chapter’s past leadership: President Grace Griffin (Ojala), Vice President Maxwell Stange, Secretary Anton Smirnov, and Treasurer Emilie Pray.

We also celebrated the AggCelerate student team for their outstanding achievement in reaching the top six nationally in the final phase of the Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration (SME)/National Stone, Sand, and Gravel Association (NSSGA) Student Design Competition at the 2024 Annual SME Conference & Expo in Phoenix, AZ. The interdisciplinary Michigan Tech team, advised by Dr. Nathan Manser, professor of practice, included mining engineering majors Aiden Harmon, Lucas Maxon, Ian Repic, Nathan Seidel, Grady Williams, and geological engineering junior Cassie Burch.

Other students recognized included Alice Schmaltz (Mining Engineering, ’25), recipient of the prestigious 2024 Copper Club Scholarship, and Rapheka Targbwe (MS student in Mining Engineering), who received competitive scholarships from the Woman’s Auxiliary to the American Institute of Mining and Metallurgical Engineers (WAAIME), a division of SME.

We also cheered for Gustavo Bejar Lopez for his success in winning the Three Minute Thesis competition and securing a National Geographic Explorer Grant last fall.

Additionally, we welcomed two new members to the department: Xiang Li, our new assistant professor of geological engineering, and Matt Laird, our new academic advisor.

The event was filled with engaging conversations, and everyone enjoyed the refreshments, which included cookies, fruit, and soft drinks. It was a wonderful time for all.

Dr. Xiang Li, an incoming Assistant Professor of GMES, publishes his research on predicting landslides

Xiang Li

Dr. Xiang Li, who will join GMES as an assistant professor of geological engineering in August, has published a paper as the lead author in the prestigious journal Geophysical Research Letters. Dr. Li is currently a postdoctoral researcher at the University of California, Los Angeles.

The paper, titled “Exploring the Behaviors of Initiated Progressive Failure and Slow-Moving Landslides in Los Angeles Using Satellite InSAR and Pixel Offset Tracking,” reveals that the Rolling Hills Estates landslide, which destroyed 12 homes in California on July 8, 2023, could have been predicted within a three-day time lag using Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) observation data. These findings provide strong evidence that satellite remote sensing data can significantly contribute to landslide early warning systems and help understand the impacts of climate change on landslide hazards.

Dr. Li’s publication was featured in the LA Times and Phys.org, underscoring the importance and relevance of his work.

This research illustrates how geological engineering can contribute to innovative solutions for predicting natural disasters and potentially saving lives.

Increasing red areas on a topographical map showing displacement in cm.
An animation depicting the land movement on Peartree Lane in Rolling Hills Estates before the July 2023 landslide (by Xiang Li).

Congratulations Spring 2024 Graduates!

Spring 2024 Grads
Spring 2024 Commencement Ceremony

Bravo, graduates! Here’s to your endless potential and the adventures awaiting in your future.

Degrees Awarded

Master of Science in Geological Engineering
Clayton H. Donajkowski
William T. Webster

Master of Science in Geology
Hayden M. Chaisson

Master of Science in Geophysics
Sunday Joseph
Aimee Zimmerman
Morgan Wilke

Master of Science in Mining Engineering
Emmanuel Wolubah
Alfred Yeboah
Enoch Nii-Okai

Bachelor of Science in Geological Engineering
Karina K. Constant
Braxton J. Murphy

Bachelor of Science in Applied Geophysics
Brendan Harville

Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering
Ian G. Repic
Olivia K. Rouleau
Nathan J. Seidel
Maxx D. Tartamella

Award Recipients

AIPG National Student Scholarship – Natalie Sorensen
Outstanding GTA Award Spring ‘24 – Aimee Zimmerman
Outstanding GTA Award Fall ’23 – Dakota Locklear
Outstanding Scholarship Award Sp’24 – Morgan Wilke
Outstanding Scholarship Award Fall ‘23 – Ian Gannon
Department Scholar – Sam Jensen
Field Geophysics Spiroff Book Award – Clarissa Gordon
Field Geology Spiroff Book Award – Anton Smirnov
Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) – Sam Jensen
Estwig Rock Hammer Award – Max Stange

Certificate Graduates

Geoinformatics – Oluwatosin O. Ayo, Clayton H. Donajkowski, Sunday Joseph,
Ashish Mahaur, Eli A. Paulen, William T. Webster, Morgana M. Wilke, Emmanuel L. Wolubah
Natural Hazards & Disaster Risk Reduction – Hayden M. Chaisson, Ryan M. Cocke,
William T. Webster, Morgana M. Wilke

GMES Spring 2024 Graduates

Brendan Harville Presents at the Michigan Space Grant Consortium Annual Conference in Kalamazoo, MI

From his first weeks in the GMES Department, Brendan Harville was interested in getting involved in research. Through a handful of well-timed events in Brendan’s first semester, he seized an opportunity to submit a research proposal with Dr. Greg Waite to the Michigan Space Grant Consortium (MSGC) undergraduate fellowship to conduct research regarding “Seismic Amplitude-based Lahar Tracking for Hazard Risk Mitigation at Fuego Volcano in Guatemala.” Brendan’s proposal was selected, leading him to plan fieldwork in Guatemala with fellow PhD student Gustavo Béjar-López. Brendan and Dr. Waite used seismic data to create a model that
can locate and track how lahars propagate down drainages from Fuego’s flanks. The work took many twists and turns (as research often does!) and resulted in an improved understanding of how the morphology of Fuego and its many drainages influence lahars and their impacts. Brendan’s work was accepted by MSGC for an oral presentation at the MSGC Annual Conference on October 21, 2023. GMES student Conor Large accompanied Brendan for his presentation over MTU’s Fall Break.

Reflecting on the entire MSGC experience, Brendan says, “My experience with undergraduate research through MSGC was invaluable. I met, connected, and collaborated with many admirable and inspiring peers and mentors for which I am truly grateful for. Special experiences like these are what invigorate and propel students like me toward future goals and aspirations. I would never have enjoyed this opportunity if I hadn’t pushed through my initial fears and feelings of self-doubt.”

GMES celebrates Brendan’s accomplishment and is proud to have submitted four new MSGC proposals this week for the Consortium’s annual call.

Check out Brendan’s day-to-day field campaign journey in Guatemala through his personally made slideshow: Field Campaign Slideshow (bit.ly/Harville_Guatemala_FieldCampaign)

Pictured L to R: Brendan Harville, Conor Large

GMES Students Wow Houghton Elementary

We are delighted to recount the recent visit of two Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences (GMES) students to Houghton Elementary School, where the Rock Your School event sparked geologic wonder. Jhuleyssey Sanchez Aguila, an MS student in geological engineering, and applied geophysics undergrad student Brendan Harville took center stage as they masterfully conducted a captivating presentation on volcanic hazards, capturing the imaginations of the bright minds in the third, fourth, and fifth grades.

It was an immensely gratifying experience for all involved as the students exhibited an insatiable curiosity, inspiring questions that underscored their genuine interest in the particularities of geological science. The eagerness displayed by the young learners further reinforced the value of fostering scientific curiosity at an early age. This collaborative effort between our university and the elementary school enriched the children’s educational experience. It exemplified the profound impact that dedicated mentorship and knowledge-sharing can have on the budding scientists of tomorrow. TV6 gives a nod to Michigan Tech in the concluding comments of their news segment.

A special thank you to Jhuleyssey and Brendan!

Houghton Elementary School Principal Cole Klein introduces Jhuleyssy and Brendan to a group of 3rd, 4th, & 5th graders.
PC: Jennifer D’Luge

2017 American Geophysical Union HONORS Program Recognizes a GMES Alumna

An alumna of GMES is one of seventy-five distinguished scientists to receive the distinction from groups representing their disciplines within the American Geophysical Union.

Lauren N. Schaefer, University of Canterbury, is a recipient of the 2017 Natural Hazards Focus Group Award for Graduate Research. Lauren earned her Ph.D. in Geological Engineering from Michigan Tech in 2016 under the advising of Dr. Thomas Oommen.

Congrats, Lauren! We’re all cheering for your continued success. 

https://eos.org/agu-news/2017-agu-section-and-focus-group-awardees-and-named-lecturers