Short Biography (Dr. Jeeban Panthi)

I am a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Kansas State University. 

My research is dedicated to an exploration of coastal hydrology, climate change, and water quality. I employ a multifaceted approach that incorporates a variety of technical tools and methodologies to enhance our understanding of hydrological processes. My toolkit includes numerical modeling, advanced geophysical techniques such as electrical resistivity imaging and seismic data analysis, satellite remote sensing, and innovative data-driven modeling approaches. The primary aim of my work is to address fundamental scientific questions within the field of hydrology, spanning the complete hydrological continuum from headwater regions to coastal zones. By doing so, my research helps to advance knowledge in hydrology, particularly focusing on water availability and water quality, contributing valuable insights critical for sustainable water resource management.

My current postdoctoral project is focused on the development of an integrated model. This model merges watershed hydrology and lake hydrodynamics, with its principal objective being the emulation of the intricate mechanisms governing the transportation of essential nutrients, specifically Nitrogen and Phosphorus. More precisely, the investigation is directed toward identifying the pathways through which these terrestrial nutrients migrate to reservoirs. A salient challenge inherent in this endeavor is the absence of an integrated modeling framework within the existing water quality models that can effectively account for the enduring impacts, or legacy effects, of nutrient inputs. To bridge this knowledge gap, I am actively engaged in adapting and enhancing a watershed modeling code. Through these critical modifications, our research aims to furnish valuable insights into the interplay between diverse land-management strategies and the potential ramifications of climate change on water quality outcomes.

My doctoral research focused on understanding coastal hydrological processes, encompassing both offshore and terrestrial hydrological controls affecting freshwater availability in coastal aquifers. My research approach blended field measurements and advanced numerical modeling. My specific area of focus centered on barrier islands within this context. I devised a methodological approach to integrate two geophysical techniques for the purpose of mapping the depth of unconsolidated aquifers in the coastal environment. Furthermore, I advanced the field by developing a variable-density groundwater flow and solute transport model to simulate the responses of coastal aquifers to reduced recharge during drought events. Additionally, I developed a method for calculating the fresh groundwater discharge in an ocean using time-lapse geophysical data. These research endeavors collectively contributed to the refinement of our understanding of coastal hydrology and its associated complexities, particularly in the context of changing environmental conditions and aquifer dynamics. 

Please read this article to know more about my Water Journey.

My research and publication sites

ResearchGate    GitHub    ORCiD    Google Scholar