We study interdisciplinary fluid mechanics problems with broad applications to the ocean and environment. We use laboratory experiments, mathematical modelling, and field data analysis as our primary tools.

The following are some examples of questions that motivate us:

How does turbulence modify particle transport in the ocean? We often approximate small particles in fluid flows (e.g., sediment, ice crystals, plankton, microplastics in the ocean) as tracers which follow fluid pathlines. However, finite-sized particles do not need to "go with the flow". Particle dynamics are controlled by both the flow and the particles' relative density, shape, size, and/or active behavior. Particles can cluster and aggregate, preferentially sample the flow, or preferentially align with flow structures. We research how and when these phenomena are important in environmental settings, focusing specifically on buoyant particles.

How do surface waves affect the transport of material? (And what are the coupled effects of waves and turbulence?) We study how ocean waves affect transport and dispersal of material. For example, we explore how waves can interact with turbulence to affect scalar transport. We also study how in some cases waves can alter the dispersal and settlement of finite-sized particles. We use both theory, often via Lagrangian analysis, and experiments in a wave tank to study these problems.

Where does plastic go in the environment? Only a fraction of the predicted plastic that enters the ocean is expected to be found in the open ocean subtropical gyres (or "garbage patches"). Our research focuses on trying to understand and predict where the rest of the plastic goes. In particular, we want to describe the physical processes that control how much ends up on our beaches, at what rate it settles onto the ocean floor, and how fast it degrades. The research outcomes of this work will enhance our understanding of how plastic enters and leaves the ocean in order to better manage and mitigate risk.

How has biology evolved to navigate in a turbulent environment? Many marine organisms, especially plankton, exist at intermediate scales relative to their turbulent environment. As a consequence, they have adapted complex and variable swimming behaviors to navigate in these conditions. Using experimental and numerical experiments, we study how their unsteady behavior in unsteady flows affects their transport and dispersal. Our findings will inform bio-inspired-designs of navigational strategies in turbulent flows.