The research of Dr. Scott Socolofsky on oil biodegradation models and microbial methane in the ocean has been featured by the Gulf of Mexico Research Institute and Eos, Earth & Space Science News.
Socolofsky and colleagues were interviewed about their work on oil biodegradation models and dispersant effects, published in the Marine Pollution Bulletin.
In this study, researchers determined the most important factor affecting surfacing was initial droplet diameter. Their research confirms the idea that knowledge of the initial size of the oil droplets is fundamental for predicting the fate and transport of oil droplets in the subsurface. Based on the model simulations presented in this work, response efforts that reduce the size of oil droplets at the well head were predicted to decrease the amount of surfacing oil and increase the residence time and biodegradation of oil within the water column.
Socolofsky also served as chief scientist on a research cruise in the Gulf of Mexico where scientists researched microbial methane in the ocean. The work helps refine scientific understanding of what happens when methane is released into seawater by studying methane-munching microbes.
Socolofsky is division head of environmental, water resources and coastal engineering in the Zachry Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Texas A&M University.