Rick Luettich

Professor Rick Luettich is an accomplished professor and researcher at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he is making significant strides in the field of Earth, Marine, and Environmental Sciences. As the Alumni Distinguished Professor and Director of the Institute of Marine Sciences, he is renowned for his expertise in modeling and measuring circulation and transport in coastal waters. His research is particularly influential in understanding storm surge and flooding, areas critical to coastal risk management and resilience. Dr. Luettich is perhaps best known for his co-development of the ADCIRC model, a pivotal tool in simulating the dynamics of coastal and oceanic systems. This model has become a cornerstone in the study of storm surges and has been widely adopted for its accuracy and reliability in predicting coastal flooding events. His work extends beyond modeling, as he has also led significant studies on coastal hypoxia, larval transport, and sediment resuspension, contributing to a deeper understanding of these complex environmental processes. In addition to his research, Professor Luettich plays a vital role in enhancing coastal resilience through his leadership positions at the Center for Natural Hazards Resilience and the Coastal Resilience Center of Excellence. These roles underscore his dedication to mitigating the impacts of natural hazards on coastal communities and ecosystems. His efforts in these centers focus on integrating scientific research with practical applications to improve preparedness and response strategies for coastal hazards. Professor Luettich's research interests are diverse, encompassing water quality, coastal circulation, autonomous in-situ data collection, storm surge modeling, ocean observing systems, and fisheries. His work in these areas not only advances scientific knowledge but also informs policy and management practices aimed at safeguarding coastal environments and communities. Throughout his career, Dr. Luettich has been committed to fostering collaboration and innovation in marine sciences. His contributions have been recognized both nationally and internationally, and he continues to inspire the next generation of scientists through his teaching and mentorship at UNC-Chapel Hill. His dedication to improving our understanding of coastal systems and enhancing resilience against natural hazards remains a driving force in his professional endeavors.