Creating Synthesis out of Complexity in Catchment Science

The Catchment Science GRC unites ecologists, hydrologists, geochemists and soil scientists with interests in interdisciplinary research to advance catchment science. The conference theme “Creating Synthesis out of Complexity in Catchment Science” recognizes that today’s catchment scientists work in complex watersheds that are increasingly influenced by accelerating human impacts and a changing climate. We are dealing with ever increasing volumes of data that describe the interacting processes that determine the behavior of these watersheds. Our challenge is to sift that data to discern the patterns and drivers of hydrologic behavior, derive unifying theory, and thus enable us to make predictions. Emerging strategies include synthesis of data and models across large samples of catchments, use of machine learning to unearth hidden patterns in data, and acquisition of dense field-scale datasets to understand physical processes.

The GRC will also be preceded by a two-day Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) that is organized by and designed for graduate students and post-doctoral researchers. The GRS provides opportunities for the exchange of ideas among early career investigators and an occasion to build relationships with peers that will form the next generation of catchment scientists. GRS attendees are expected to join the GRC and share in the full experience. For information on the GRS, please contact one of the student GRS organizers.