Dr. Daniel Smith
POSTDOCTORAL NETWORK | Global Change Center
Presidential Postdoctoral Fellow
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Brian Badgley
School of Plant & Environmental Sciences
dsmith36@vt.edu
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Dr. Daniel Smith graduated from the Biological Systems Engineering Department at Virginia Tech in 2022 and was a Presidential Postdoctoral Fellow in the School of Plant and Environmental Sciences with Dr. Brian Badgley’s research group from 2022-2024. As of Jan. 2024 Dr. Smith started a position with Davids Engineering out in Northern California as a Water Resources Engineer.
Daniel’s research interest sits at the intersection of fluid mechanics, geomorphology, and soil microbiology. Specifically, he wants to understand how “tiny soil bugs” (soil microorganisms) can influence large-scale processes like soil erosion and sediment transport. Daniel’s career goal is to become an experienced research scientist and mentor who studies and trains up-and-coming scientists to pursue “nature-based solutions” or “bio-inspired engineering” research. This is the area of research that seeks to weave natural processes into the built environment to promote adaptation and resilience.
Outside of work, Daniel loves playing video games, going for a run/bike ride, and hiking the beautiful mountains in the surrounding area. Over the weekend, you may also find Daniel relaxing at local wineries/vineyards while taking in the amazing landscapes.
Last upated on 1/29/2024.
The GCC postdoctoral network connects our outstanding postdoctoral researchers to our broader GCC community, and provides them with a variety of professional development opportunities such as training in mentorship, grant writing, and science communication.
