Our Team

Antonia Hadjimichael

Assistant Professor, Group PI

Dr. Hadjimichael is an interdisciplinary scientist studying complex human-Earth systems, specifically in the domain of water and planning under uncertainty. She holds a BSc in Mathematics from the University of Leicester, UK, a MSc in Environmental Modeling from University College London (UCL), UK, and a PhD in Water Science and Technology from the University of Girona, Spain.

Gabriela Gesualdo

Postdoctoral Associate

Dr. Gabriela Gesualdo is a Postdoctoral Researcher specializing in water resources planning within complex human-earth systems. Her research primarily revolves around the intriguing realm of compounding events within the context of systemic complexity. Gabriela's academic journey includes a BSc in Environmental Engineering and an MSc in Water Resources and Environmental Technologies from the Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. She further pursued her passion by earning a PhD in Hydraulic Engineering and Sanitation from the University of São Paulo, Brazil.

Huilin Luo

PhD Student, Environmental Engineering

Huilin is pursuing a PhD in Environmental Engineering. Her research focuses on improving the integrated assessment models to better represent the deep uncertainties in social and natural environments. Prior to Penn State, She received her bachelor and master's degree in environmental engineering, and minored in psycology in Tsinghua University in China. When not coding and reading papers, Huilin plays basketball, enjoys street photography, and is a proud cat and dog mom.

Ava Spangler

PhD Candidate, Geosciences and Climate Science Dual Title

Ava is pursuing a PhD in Geosciences and Climate Science. Her interdisciplinary research focuses on decision-making tools for urban resilience against climate change. Currently, her work is focused on adaptations to urban flooding in Baltimore. Ava previously earned a B.Sc. in Civil Engineering from the University of Colorado Boulder, where her studies focused on hydrology and water resources. Outside of research, Ava enjoys sweet treats, trail running, and yoga.

Ethan Heidtman

PhD Student, Geosciences and Climate Science Dual Title

Ethan Heidtman is pursuing his Ph.D in Geosciences at Penn State. Before coming to PSU, he attended the University of Maryland, College Park, and received a BSc in Geology and a BSc in Atmospheric & Oceanic Science. His research interests include exploratory modeling of human-natural systems, hydrology, and meteorology. In his free time, Ethan enjoys watching and playing soccer, golfing, and spending time with family.

Tsunami Sharmba

PhD Student, Geoscience and Climate Science Dual Title

Tsunami is pursuing a PhD in Geosciences and Climate Science. Her interests are interdisciplinary ranging from studying the impacts of and reactions to climate change, as well as the ethical use and allocation of resources. Before joining the Geosciences department, Tsunami earned a Master of Science in Energy and Mineral Engineering, a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Systems Engineering with honors, and a Bachelor of Science in Philosophy from Penn State. Tsunami also completed an undergraduate minor in Watersheds and Water Resources. Outside of work, Tsunami enjoys baking, video games, and weekend getaways.