Omar Harvey, Ph.D., professor of geology, will serve as director of TCU’s new Natural Resources Research Initiative, to develop and support interdisciplinary research teams, secure funding, train the next generation of researchers, and translate research into societal impact. He will report to the Vice Provost for Research.
Harvey joined TCU in 2015 and has collaborated with colleagues and students whose research interests and expertise are critical to addressing the interconnected challenges of energy, water, food, and climate, from local to global scales. He has developed and taught undergraduate and graduate courses in geology, applied geosciences, earth system science and environmental sciences. He has mentored dozens of undergraduate, graduate and postdoctoral students; published numerous research findings; and received more than $300K in internal research grants and $2M in extramural funding.
“Dr. Harvey’s expertise, combined with his commitment to collaboration, will be instrumental to our success as we undertake this exciting initiative,” said Floyd L. Wormley Jr., Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. “I know he will work to enhance TCU’s reputation in natural resources research, innovation, and sustainability, and help position TCU as a lead contributor to solve critical natural resource challenges.”
In the coming months, Harvey will work with the Office of Sponsored Programs and collaborate with colleges, departments, and units to map TCU’s research strengths and gather ideas. He will work with the Chief University Strategy and Innovation Officer to engage with policymakers and industry leaders for opportunities to demonstrate how research solves challenges.
“I am honored to work with my colleagues, students and TCU administration to shape a bold future for TCU’s research endeavors in natural resources. Together, we have a tremendous opportunity to leverage our shared passion and talents to advance knowledge, drive innovation, and position TCU at the forefront of national conversations on sustainability, resilience, and the future of our planet,” Harvey said.
Harvey holds a Ph.D. in geological sciences from Texas A&M University, M.S. from the University of Florida, and B.S. from the University of the West Indies – St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago. He is a member of the Geochemical Society, American Chemical Society, American Geophysical Union, Soil Science Society of America, and Geological Society of America.