Welcome to the Tilburg Research Group!

Coastal Oceanography and Numerical Modeling

Our research focuses on the circulation of estuaries and the coastal ocean. We are particularly interested in the physical factors that govern the distribution of river plumes, the transport of crab and fish larvae, and across-shelf transport on the continental shelf. Our work involves a combination of field observations, remote-sensing techniques, and numerical modeling.

Physical Oceanography refers to the study of the structure and dynamics of oceanic circulation and water properties through the examination of water mass formation, waves, tides, turbulent mixing, and other physical factors. Research in physical oceanography can rely on observations, analytical modeling, as well as computer simulations.

Remote-sensing refers to the use of satellite-derived data to estimate oceanic physical and biological properties. Using a number of different satellites and their output, we are able to determine ocean properties such as surface color, surface temperature, and biological productivity, as well as track drifters placed in the ocean.

Ocean modeling strives to explain and predict water transport, temperature and salinity based on established principles of fluid dynamics. Marine science is an inherently interdisciplinary field of study and many research programs encompass aspects of physics, chemistry, biology and geology. Models are useful tools that help marine scientists integrate these different aspects and examine our ideas of how a particular system works.

At the University of New England, we have the opportunity to examine the effects of physical and biological processes on the coastal environment using a combination of satellites, ship-based instruments, and high-powered computers. Applying this knowledge, we are able to help solve the real world problems facing today's coastal water resources.