Shikha Sharma, Marshall Miller Professor of Energy in Geology and chief scientific officer of the WVU Institute of Sustainability and Energy Research, was prominently featured at the American Geophysical Union Conference for their groundbreaking contributions to revolutionizing the energy landscape through geosciences.
During the meeting, the world’s largest annual gathering of earth scientists in Washington, D.C., AGU showcased a video spotlighting the research led by Sharma and their team in the IsoBioGeM Lab.
Located in the Appalachian region, the Lab capitalizes on its unique geological setting to advance sustainable energy solutions, with a focus on geothermal energy, critical minerals, carbon and hydrogen storage.
Sharma emphasized the University’s innovative interdisciplinary curriculum integrates disciplines like geology, engineering, chemistry, physics, biology, social and environmental sciences, equipping students with the skills needed to tackle future energy challenges.
Doctoral students in Sharma’s lab shared insights into their diverse energy research projects, emphasizing the importance of collaborative, multidisciplinary teamwork in addressing global energy challenges.
Fred King, vice president of research at WVU, highlighted how students and researchers working in the lab are gaining invaluable real-world experience, collaborating with industry and national laboratories to prepare them for impactful careers in sustainable energy.
By harnessing the power of geosciences, WVU is not only addressing the pressing energy demands of today, but also paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future.