Environmental Dynamics Lab (ENDLab)

The Environmental Dynamics Lab (ENDLab) is dedicated to advancing our understanding of environmental flow processes through a multifaceted approach encompassing meticulously planned and executed field and laboratory experiments, cutting-edge instrument development, and advanced theoretical and numerical modeling. The research has a primary focus on the ocean, spanning micro-scale diffusive processes to global ocean transport. We have conducted field experiments in regions ranging from the Arctic Ocean to the South China Sea and the Western Pacific Ocean.

In recent years, our research has strategically addressed pressing societal challenges related to nascent ocean utilization technologies. Specifically, our attention has been directed towards critical issues such as ocean carbon dioxide removal and deep-seabed mining. We take a leadership role in conducting pivotal monitoring trials of commercial technologies proposed for deployment at scale, including collector technology trials in the Clarion Clipperton Fracture Zone of the Pacific Ocean and ocean CO2 capture off the US West Coast. Committed to broadening the impact of our findings, we actively engage with national and international stakeholders, ensuring that our research is disseminated through various channels, with a primary focus on peer-reviewed publications. The goal is to contribute valuable insights that inform decision-making processes and enhance public understanding.

Research in the ENDLab seamlessly integrates experiments, theoretical and numerical modeling, field studies, and instrument development. Our team’s expertise spans fundamental fluid dynamics, physical oceanography, stratified flows, and nonlinear dynamics. Leveraging this diverse skill set, we seek to unravel the intricacies of crucial physical environmental and ocean processes rooted in fluid dynamical phenomena. In recent years, our research has evolved from studying fundamental processes to placing a distinct emphasis on ocean utilization, addressing pressing issues such as ocean carbon capture and deep-seabed mining.