Advanced Topics (450-0-01)

Topic

The Subsurface: Real Estate, Residents, & Resource

Instructors

Magdalena Osburn
847/491-4254
Tech F291/F292
Office Hours: by appointment

Meeting Info

Technological Institute F285: Tues, Thurs 11:00AM - 12:20PM

Overview of class

The subsurface hosts one the largest biomes on the planet, is a key source of drinking water, energy resources, and minerals, and plays a critical role in many of the planned solutions to climate change such as decarbonization, green hydrogen, and critical mineral extraction. This course will transport students underground, examining aspects of subsurface hydrology, geology, and microbiology. We will aim to examine each of these aspects using a range of tools, holistically building a better understanding of how the subsurface works in it's natural state and how this may change moving forward. The course structure will be framed around regional case studies, each featuring readings from the primary literature, lectures from experts, and class discussion and synthesis. All content will be aimed to engage an interdisciplinary audience, and the discussion will benefit from a range of expertise.

Registration Requirements

This course will include advanced readings from the primary literature covering aspects of geology, hydrology, microbiology, and environmental engineering. Familiarity with at least one of those disciplines and willingness to engage with the literature are recommended.

Class Materials (Required)

No textbook is required.