Joshua Seidman, a fourth-year doctoral student in the Department of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences, has built his academic career around applying mathematics to real world geophysical problems.

Seidman's research focuses on debris flow modeling. After a wildfire, landscapes are left burned and the soil often becomes water repellant. When heavy rain follows, water does not soak into the ground as it typically would. Instead, it accumulates with rocks, ash and other debris left behind by the fire. This mixture can produce debris flows that are orders of magnitude larger than clear water flows that occur during a typical rainstorm.

"I think mathematical modeling of geophysical phenomena is super interesting," Seidman said. "In the case of debris flows, it's cool to be able to apply my math skills to a field where it might one day have a tangible impact on people's lives."

His current work aims to improve the soil erosion component of debris flow models. There is no single erosion model that works in every situation. Seidman and his advisor are working to better understand the erosion process with the goal of developing a more accurate model. By refining how erosion is represented mathematically, they hope to improve predictions of when and where debris flows may occur. He said he hopes the research will eventually help people living near recent wildfire areas assess their risk and determine whether evacuation is necessary.

Seidman credits his advisor, Dr. Elaine Spiller, for playing a central role in his academic development. He described her as supportive and balanced in her mentorship, pushing him while also allowing him to explore his own ideas. He said her guidance has been invaluable in helping him navigate the doctoral program. Through her support, he has presented his research at conferences in Trieste, Italy and Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Seidman was recently named a recipient of the Earl W. Swokowski Fellowship in Mathematics. The fellowship supports graduate students in the department and recognizes their progress in research. "The fellowship has allowed me to focus on my research and progress my dissertation," Seidman said. It has also given him additional time to tutor on the side while continuing his academic work.

He encourages other graduate students to apply. To be considered, applicants must have passed their comprehensive exams and be actively conducting research with an advisor. Students interested in learning more about the fellowship can contact Marquette's Department of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences.

Seidman, originally from the northwest suburbs of Chicago, chose Marquette after visiting campus and meeting graduate students in the department. He said it was clear that the department fostered a strong and enjoyable environment. Several of the students he met during his visit still remain close friends.

Outside of his research, Seidman spends time playing video games, reading and playing soccer. After breaking his collarbone twice in five months, he said he is reconsidering soccer as a hobby. His favorite place to study is his teaching assistant office on the fourth floor, where natural light fills the space. From there, he can see an air conditioning unit on the roof that he has comically nicknamed Colin. When he encounters a roadblock while coding, he sometimes directs his thoughts and comments towards the fixture outside the window.

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