Kulesza's research focuses on identifying anthropogenic impacts on soil properties, applied geophysics and soil erosion potential, and characterizing infrastructure deterioration. Her research group seeks to understand the in situ integrity of natural materials and aging infrastructure to support the global initiative of sustainability and resiliency. Her research sponsors include the National Science Foundation, Federal Railroad Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation, Kansas Department of Transportation, U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Kansas Water Research Institute.