Dr. Laura Pyrak Nolte

Professor

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Biography

Laura J. Pyrak-Nolte is a Distinguished Professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Purdue University. Her research focuses on rock physics, with specific interests in the effects of fractures on seismic acoustic wave propagation, fluid flow in porous media, and fracture network geometry. She has held numerous prestigious positions and fellowships, reflecting her contributions to both academia and the geophysical sciences. Pyrak-Nolte completed her B.S. in 1981 from the State University of New York at Buffalo, followed by an M.S. in 1983 from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, and earned her Ph.D. in 1988 in Materials Science and Mineral Engineering. Throughout her career, she has received several awards including membership in the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and the National Academy of Engineering, and has been recognized for her innovative contributions to geosciences with her induction into the Innovator Hall of Fame at Purdue University. Additionally, she has provided significant service to various professional organizations and has an extensive record of published research, further establishing her reputation as a leader in her field.

Research Interests

Experience

Distinguished Professor

2018-01-01 — Present

Purdue University • West Lafayette, IN

Professor

2001-01-01 — 2017-12-31

Purdue University • West Lafayette, IN

Associate Professor

1997-01-01 — 2001-12-31

Purdue University • West Lafayette, IN

Assistant Professor

1992-01-01 — 1997-12-31

Purdue University • West Lafayette, IN

Visiting Assistant Professor

1990-01-01 — 1992-12-31

Purdue University • West Lafayette, IN

Research Associate

1989-01-01 — 1990-12-31

Purdue University • West Lafayette, IN

Staff Scientist Level II

1989-06-01 — 1989-09-01

Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory • Berkeley, CA

Research Assistant

1983-01-01 — 1988-12-31

University of California, Berkeley • Berkeley, CA

Research Assistant

1981-01-01 — 1983-12-31

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University • Blacksburg, VA

Awards

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Member

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Member

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Fellow

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Fellow

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Reginald Fessenden Award

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Innovator Hall of Fame

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Fellow

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University Scholar

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Outstanding Alumna Award

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Schlumberger Lecture Award

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Young Investigator Award

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Young Investigator Award

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Honorable Mention

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Outstanding Paper

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Editor's Citation for Excellence in Refereeing

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Basic Research Award

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Jane Lewis Fellowship

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Thomas Dias Fellowship

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University Fellowship

Requirements for Purdue University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:80
GRE Subject
Prerequisites
Knowledge of general physics Intermediate level mechanics Electricity and magnetism Statistical and thermal physics Quantum mechanics
Application Checklist
  • Completed Application Form
  • Application Fee
  • Academic Statement of Purpose
  • Official Transcripts
  • Physics and Math Course Listing Form
  • Three Letters of Reference
  • Personal History Statement
Specialization Notes

GRE General and Physics Subject tests are optional but encouraged.