Kelly Sanders joined the University of Southern California’s Astani Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering in January 2014 as an assistant professor following the completion of her PhD from the University of Texas at Austin. Her research seeks to increase the sustainable development of urban and agricultural systems through three major focus areas: the energy-water nexus, sustainable waste management, and low-impact food production. In addition to a doctorate in Civil Engineering, Sanders earned her bachelor's degree in Bioengineering from the Pennsylvania State University and her Master's degree from the University of Texas’ Department of Mechanical Engineering. She teaches classes related to energy and the environment.
The Energy Water Nexus
Energy and water are both vital to the US economy and quality of life. Together they enable such things as an ample food supply, electricity production, and safe drinking water. Insufficient access to energy and water has already placed strain on many societies abroad as well as within the US. My research investigates various aspects of the energy-water nexus to inform better decision making using tools such as synthesis, lifecycle assessment, geographic information systems, and power market modeling.
Thesis: The Energy Water Nexus: An Examination of the Water Quality Impacts of Biofuels
B.S., Bioengineering Engineering (B.S. Minors: Engineering Mechanics and Kinesiology), 2007, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA