Dr. Li is investigating and applying new paradigms, improved methodologies, and innovative technologies for modeling flow and solute transport in complex groundwater systems. Dr. Li is particularly concerned about the effects of heterogeneity, scale interactions, interaction between groundwater and surface water, model-data integration, and developing modeling tools that can adapt to complex field conditions across multiple spatial and temporal scales. Dr. Li`s basic research is supported by the National Science Foundation.
Dr. Li is also engaging in applied research and helping solve groundwater problems facing local communities. Recent projects include landfill modeling, 3D visualization of groundwater contamination, groundwater and surface interactions, source water protection, stochastic wellhead delineation, remediation system modeling, pump test analysis, subsurface drainage, and modeling fate and transport of contaminated sediments. Dr. Li`s applied research program has been supported by US Environmental Protection Agency, US Geological Survey, Great Lakes Protection Fund, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, and other local state agencies, industries, and citizen groups.
Curriculum innovations and development of integrated, research-based learning technologies represent another area of research in Dr. Li`s group. These integrated research-education activities are funded by the NSF CRCD (Combined Research and Curriculum Development) program and the NSF NSDL (National Science Digital Library) Program. Taking advantage of the recent dramatic advances in computer technology and object-oriented visual programming, Dr. Li`s team have been developing interactive computer tools that accelerate research transfer and bring cutting-edge research into the classroom. In particular, Dr. Li and his research group have recently developed a sophisticated interactive and visual system for unified deterministic and stochastic groundwater modeling. The software represents the first comprehensive stochastic modeling system that allows real-time and interactive groundwater visualization, analysis, and monitoring. On-going research includes 1) extending model capabilities of the software system, improving model solvers and algorithms, and refining the graphical user interface and 2) converting the software system to a virtual groundwater environment for teaching groundwater site investigation, modeling, and remediation. Utilizing these real-time, interactive, and integrated technologies, Dr. Li and his team are also in the process of developing a comprehensive, advanced groundwater visualization & animation library for groundwater research and education. This library capitalizes on the power of digital media and the power of interaction and visualization and may potentially benefit the entire groundwater community, including students, researchers, professors, citizens, and frontline professionals.
