Research Assistant Professor

Perhaps the greatest challenge we face today is how to meet our escalating energy needs while minimizing the environmental and societal impacts of a rapidly warming planet. My research involves using the coupled hydrogeological, thermodynamic, biogeochemical and geomechanical principles to comprehend and address this formidable challenge. Specifically, my methodology involves the development and application of multiphase multicomponent reactive transport mathematical models, which are complemented by integration of laboratory experimentation and field observations. Through these concerted efforts, I endeavor to unravel the intricate dynamics of the carbon cycle from shallow marine sediments to Arctic permafrost environments.

Much of my research has focused on the genesis and evolution of methane hydrate systems. My work links thermodynamic, hydraulic, and biogeochemical processes. I have developed a dynamic model of the methane hydrate system that recreates the generation, migration, phase partitioning, and accumulation of methane as sediment is deposited on the seafloor and buried (You & Flemings, 2021; You et al., 2021). My model laid the scientific foundation for pioneering deep-water hydrate expeditions in the Gulf of Mexico in 2017 and 2023. This research is summarized in a comprehensive review paper (You et al., 2019).

In addition, I am exploring the origins and magnitude of seabed methane emissions across Arctic continental shelves (You, 2024) to understand their trends over the coming century. My goal is to quantitatively assess greenhouse gas emissions and elucidate their extensive environmental impacts in the warming Arctic.

INTERESTS

• Carbon cycle in permafrost and greenhouse gas emissions from the warming Arctic
• Biogeochemical cycle in shallow marine sediments and ocean-sediment interaction
• Dynamics of gas hydrate system
• Formation and evolution of oil and gas seeps
• Flow and reactive transport in porous media and in fractured sediments

ACADEMICS

Ph.D., Hydrogeology, Texas A&M University
B.E., Environmental Science, University of Science and Technology of China

CONTACTS AND LINKS
512-471-0462
kehua@ig.utexas.edu
Office: 3.232
Curriculum Vitae
Publications