Ross Lieblappen

Ross is an Associate Professor in the Natural Sciences Department, teaching physics, chemistry, and environmental science. He received a B.A. in environmental studies and chemistry from Middlebury College, a M.S. in mathematics from The University of Vermont, and a Ph.D. in Engineering Sciences from Dartmouth College. Starting with examining the pore structure of soil systems in 2006, Ross has been using X-ray micro-computed tomography (μCT) to probe the microstructure of various samples. The majority of his research has been studying snow, ice, and other geologic samples from Antarctica to the Arctic. More information on his research is available at http://lieblappen.vtc.edu/.

For many of his projects, Ross partners with the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (CRREL) located in Hanover, NH. Research expeditions have taken him and his students from the Arctic to the Antarctic. Recently he received a $3.3 million project to study microbes across various Arctic environments. Additionally, he has partnered with the Vermont Manufacturing Collaborative to use μCT to characterize the structure of various manufactured parts ranging from plastics to metals. He recruits students to join him in his research projects with opportunities to work at a governmental lab, publish scientific papers, and present work at national and international conferences.

In his free time, Ross enjoys the woods of VT, adventuring outside with his wife, two kids, and two dogs whether it be skiing, hiking, biking, paddling, or adventure racing. If you are interested in getting involved with polar research, looking for tips on outdoor adventures, or want advice about class or life as a scientist, don’t hesitate to reach out.