We interviewed Eirik Valseth, an Associate Professor of Scientific Computing at the Norwegian University of Life Science (NMBU) and a researcher at both the University of Texas at Austin and Simula. Here’s what he shared about his career path, research, and its real-world impact.
🎓What is your educational background, and how did you become interested in your field?
My path to becoming a researcher was shaped by both chance and the guidance of mentors. In high school, I was on track to become a carpenter, but I changed course after military service and took preparatory courses in mathematics and physics. There, an inspiring professor sparked my interest in mechanical engineering, which I pursued further.
While studying for a master's degree in the U.S., a course on nonlinear mechanics completely shifted my focus. This led me to pursue a PhD in computational mechanics, and eventually, I secured a postdoc at the Oden Institute in Texas. There, I began working on computational hydraulics, which has since become the core of my research, focusing on natural hazard forecasting.
🌊What is the most important research question in your field?
The biggest challenge in my field is addressing Compound Flooding, where multiple sources of floodwaters—like rain and sea surges—combine. These events are difficult to simulate because the interactions are nonlinear and happen at different times and scales. Developing fast, reliable simulations to support emergency responders is critical. It’s a tough challenge, but it’s essential for saving lives.
🔹How does your work impact the everyday person?
The techniques and models I develop can make a real difference in people’s lives. In Norway, I hope my work will help optimize hydroelectric energy use, potentially reducing energy bills. Another key area is flood forecasting. For people in flood-prone areas, fast and accurate predictions can mean the difference between life and death. For instance, the models my team developed at the Oden Institute are used in Houston to inform responses to hurricane-induced floods.
As a recent example, the alert system used for the ongoing Hurricane Milton in Florida incorporates tools myself and collaborators helped create. The simulations are being run multiple times a day. It’s rewarding to know that my work contributes to keeping people safe, even though it’s heartbreaking to see the devastation these disasters cause.
Thanks to Eirik for contributing to this researcher profile.
🔗Find his full researcher spotlight: https://lnkd.in/d7vMPdBT
🔗Recent article interview with NRK: https://lnkd.in/dCs4qZWy
