BCAL doctoral student Joel Sankey received ISU Outstanding Graduate Student award for 2010. A gifted researcher and scholar, Joel grew up with a fascination for the Earth and its resources. “I’ve always been interested in environmental science – how people use water, our impact on the environment, and how we can work to conserve resources,” Sankey said.
Sankey recently completed his doctorate in engineering and applied science. His research involves using remote sensing technology-sophisticated satellite imagery-to study soil erosion on burned range lands in eastern Idaho. The goal is to identify areas that are prone to wind and soil erosion, restore those lands and work to prevent future erosion, says Joel.
“Joel is a truly talented scientist and gifted in both field-based and laboratory analysis,” said his research professor Nancy Glenn. Sankey holds a bachelor’s degree in soils and environmental sciences and a master’s in land rehabilitation from Montana State University in Bozeman. He will pursue postdoctoral studies at ISU.