Janey Smith(expects to obtain Ph.D. May 2008)

Department & Program:  Environmental Engineering       

Hometown:  McMinnville, TN    

Undergraduate degree from:  Tennessee Technological University, Cookeville, Tennessee

Outside interests/activities:  I enjoy many activities outside of the academic world including dabbling in photography, hiking, running, exploring the outdoors in many ways, and playing softball.  I’ve also been involved with our student chapter of ASCE, the Center for Teaching, and Vanderbilt Student Volunteers for Science (VSVS).  Recently, I began work with TWISTER, a group that organizes a workshop each year to introduce high-school-aged girls to careers in math, science, and engineering.  I’m also an adjunct teacher for the School for Science and Math at Vanderbilt, which is focused on introducing local high school students to research-based learning in the sciences and mathematics.    

Why Vanderbilt:  Not only is Vanderbilt a well-known name among Americans and holds prestige as a Research One institution, but it also offers small interactive classes and highly accessible faculty that provide additional learning opportunities.  The networking opportunities through various speaker events are also an advantage due to the high-ranked individuals we are able to attract. There’s also opportunity to get involved in multiple activities around campus which add to the experience.  Vanderbilt is often host to amazing multi-cultural performances and artistic presentations.  Basically, Vanderbilt provides a well-rounded experience for those who wish to explore.

Likes best about Vanderbilt Engineering:  I like the accessibility of the faculty and the comradery within the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department.  The classes are challenging, and often interesting.  I’ve especially enjoyed working with the undergraduate students as a teaching assistant.   

Research Summary: My research involves development of a water quality management and spill response information system.  The system will include a linkage between geographic information systems (GIS) and advanced surface water quality modeling.  On the  water quality management side, bounded waterways such as the Tennessee River can evaluated for the impacts of dam releases on parameters such as dissolved oxygen and temperature which affect wildlife habitat downstream. The system will be used by agencies and organizations responsible for our waterways to predict locations of contaminant plumes as they migrate downstream from accidental or intentional releases.  Special focus is on creating tools for planning and scenario development to maximize spill response efforts and provide decision support for management activities.