The University of Toledo

GK-12 Personnel

Kyle Siemer
Graduate Fellow (Partnered with Michelle Bogue, Sylvania Northview)
kyle.siemer@rockets.utoledo.edu

I earned a B.S. in geology from Grand Valley State University (GVSU). During my time at GVSU I studied a variety of research topics that ranged from developing a geologic solution for calcium carbonate rock build-up in leachate drainage pipes, to analyzing shoreline geomorphology evolution due to sea-level-rise in Puerto Rico.   I received a fellowship from NASA’s Michigan space grant consortium grant program which funded my research in Puerto Rico and allowed me to use cutting edge GIS and GPS technologies for research, bolstering my interest in applied remote sensing techniques for studying geology. I am now pursuing a M.Sc. in Geology at the University of Toledo with a focus on remote sensing techniques. My thesis project involves using a technique called persistent scatterer radar interferometry (PInSAR) to measure subsidence (gradual depression of the ground) of urban areas that sit above abandoned underground mines in Ohio. There are ~5,100 confirmed mines in the state, and another 2000-3000 mines that have not been located. This technique is useful because it brings light to vertical displacement associated with the mine subsidence, and remediation costs can be estimated from the results. The GK-12 program is a unique because it allows high school students to see what different scientific fields may have to offer them.