Dr. David Shean

Associate Professor

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Biography

David's research involves the development and application of new methods to study the dynamic components of the Earth system and their real-world implications, including water resources, sea level rise, and natural hazards. His current research employs satellite, airborne, UAV, and terrestrial remote sensing observations to understand Earth's cryosphere, focusing on mountain glaciers, seasonal snow, and ice sheets. This work necessitates automated data processing pipelines and modern data science approaches, including cloud computing, to address questions that cannot be tackled using traditional methods. David has interests in satellite mission operations, commercial smallsat constellations, and the development of satellite instruments, particularly high-resolution cameras and laser altimeters. He previously documented past glaciation evidence of climate change on Mars and has worked with Yellowstone National Park studying its dynamic hydrothermal features. David has also performed geophysical surveys in the Transantarctic Mountains and participated in NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter science operations team. His educational credentials include a Ph.D. in Earth Space Sciences from the University of Washington.

Research Interests

Experience

Postdoctoral Research Associate

— Present

Applied Physics Laboratory, University of Washington • Seattle, WA

Visiting Scholar

— Present

Boston University • Boston, MA

Member

— Present

NASA Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter Context Camera Science Operations Team •

Courses

CEE467/CEWA567: Geospatial Data Analysis Python CEE437/CEWA537: Advanced Surveying Geomatics CEE317: Geomatics (Geosurveying) ENGR106: Experience Engineering

Requirements for University of Washington

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:80
IELTS
Overall
Required:6.5
Duolingo
Overall Score
Required:105
Overall
Required:105
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Transcripts
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Letters of Recommendation
  • Resume/CV
  • English proficiency scores (for international students)
Specialization Notes

Standard Graduate School requirements for University of Washington apply to most departments listed unless specified otherwise by the program.