The civil engineering doctoral candidate Julia Loshelder received a scholarship from the United States Society on Dams at her virtual conference in 2021. Loshelder’s research presentation, entitled “Remote Sensing Methods to Monitor the Change in Water Content in Dams,” was presented along with student presentations from the University of Texas, the University of Colorado, and the University of California Davis. The goal of Losherler’s research is to use different wavelengths of light (visible, near infrared, or microwave) to determine the moisture content of the soil in earthfill dams during construction and as a tool for monitoring dams after construction. Current processes are time and labor intensive and / or destructive, so this process would be quick and non-destructive.
“I am very happy about this scholarship, which recognizes my achievements to date, but also my future potential as a dam researcher,” said Loshelder. “Through the application process, I gained experience in writing a research proposal and, through being selected as a finalist, I presented my research at the USSD conference. Both experiences (writing a research proposal and presenting my research) will be useful in my scientific career as I will use and improve both skills. “
Loshelder, a native of Flower Mound, Texas, received her bachelor’s degree in civil engineering in May 2020; Graduated with distinction in mathematics and physics as a minor. She is also a fellow in the National Science Foundation’s Graduate Research Fellowships program and an Arkansas Distinguished Doctoral Fellow. After completing her training, she is aiming for an academic career by seeking a position as a professor at a research university. For more information on the United States Society on Dams, visit theirs website.
