Ross Lieblappen, Ph.D.

Ross is an Associate Professor in the Science Department, teaching physics, chemistry, and environmental science. He received a B.A. in environmental studies and chemistry from Middlebury College, a M.S. in mathematics from The University of Vermont, and a Ph.D. in Engineering Sciences from Dartmouth College. Starting with examining the pore structure of soil systems in 2006, Ross has been using X-ray micro-computed tomography (μCT) to probe the microstructure of various samples. The majority of his research has been studying snow, ice, and other geologic samples from Antarctica to the Arctic. More information on his research is available here.

For many of his projects, Ross partners with the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (CRREL) located in Hanover, NH. One recent project looked at saltwater channels in sea ice in and around Barrow, Alaska, and the Ross Sea in Antarctica to examine how salt moves through sea ice from the ocean to the atmosphere. As part of the project, he developed a device which allowed him to drive 20 ice cores from Alaska to New England for analysis all while maintaining the natural sea ice temperature gradient. Recently he has partnered with the Vermont Manufacuring Collaborative to use μCT to characterize the structure of various manufactured parts ranging from plastics to metals. He recruits students to join him in his research projects with opportunities to work at a governmental lab, publish scientific papers, and present work at national and international conferences.

In his free time, Ross enjoys the woods of VT, adventuring outside with his wife, two kids, and two dogs whether it be skiing, hiking, biking, paddling, or adventure racing. If you are interested in getting involved with polar research, looking for tips on outdoor adventures, or want advice about class or life as a scientist, don’t hesitate to reach out.

  • School

    General Education

  • Role

    Assistant Professor

  • Department(s)

  • Degrees

    BA, Middlebury College; MS, University of Vermont; PhD, Dartmouth College

  • Email

    Ross.Lieblappen@vtc.edu