Olivia Stanley

I am an MS in Geology student working with Dr. Glenn Thackray as an aspiring quaternary scientist. Broadly, I am interested in questions concerning both fluvial and glacial geomorphology, water and snow science, and paleoclimate. However, my current research is focused on characterizing the hydrologic and ecologic properties of rock glaciers in the Lost River and Pioneer Ranges of Central Idaho as a means of understanding rock glacier stream potential as a vital water resource in arid regions more widely. My work is largely field-based and interdisciplinary with collaborators across disciplines in geomorphology, hydrology, geochemistry, and stream ecology. As a side interest, I am also pursuing continued coursework in philosophy of science, science outreach and communication, and secondary STEM education. 

Prior to my time at ISU, I attended Davidson College (2020) where I earned a BS in both Environmental Studies and Philosophy and pursued a largely soil science and geomorphic mapping-based thesis titled "Morphology and Evolution of the Linville River, North Carolina, USA." As a peak pandemic grad, I wanted to wait until in-person learning could resume before jumping back into graduate studies, so I spent a couple years based in Charlotte, NC (and beyond) working in sustainable development in the coffee industry before moving to Pocatello in the Fall of '22. 

I am beyond grateful to now call the beautiful state of Idaho home. Outside of the research world, I am a lover of the outdoors and avid music fan. You can catch me backpacking, skiing, flyfishing, kayaking, and camping all across the Northern Rockies or dancing the night away at one of Idaho's many bluegrass shows.