At the University of Oklahoma, the School of Civil Engineering and Environmental Science (CEES) cultivates a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment where faculty engage in collaborative research across campus and beyond. This spirit of innovation fuels impactful educational programs—such as curriculum and K–12 outreach initiatives—developed in partnership with the College of Education and Instructional Development.
CEES faculty bring wide-ranging expertise to the classroom and the lab, with many holding joint or affiliated appointments in fields such as anthropology, botany and microbiology, chemical engineering, chemistry, meteorology, and zoology—expanding the reach and relevance of civil and environmental science across disciplines.
The Center for Restoration of Ecosystems and Watersheds (CREW) advances research in natural infrastructure and ecosystem services through conservation and restoration of natural and engineered systems. Its core focus: watershed biogeochemistry and ecological engineering.
Norman South Research Campus
Donald G. Fears Structural Engineering Lab, the University of Oklahoma’s pioneering structural engineering facility, was launched with a gift from Donald G. Fears and championed by professor Tom Murray. It now anchors the South Research Campus as a center for structural engineering, structural mechanics and geotechnical engineering research.
The Institute for Applied Surfactant Research (IASR) at the University of Oklahoma is home to eight renowned faculty members dedicated to advancing surfactant science. Their work spans a wide spectrum of applications—including detergent formulation, environmental remediation, bioseparations, microelectronics, enhanced oil recovery, dispersant stabilization, and drug delivery systems. This breadth of research has established IASR as a premier global leader in surfactant innovation.
National Weather Center
Located within the National Weather Center, the HyDROS Laboratory is a vital research unit at the University of Oklahoma. This transdisciplinary lab bridges water, weather, and climate science through advanced remote sensing and modeling.
HyDROS is affiliated with the Advanced Radar Research Center, the Water Technology for Emerging Regions Center, and the School of Civil Engineering and Environmental Science. Together, our collaborations drive predictive modeling and environmental research across local, state, regional, and global scales.
The Integrated PoroMechanics Institute (iPMI) at the University of Oklahoma serves as a hub for cross-disciplinary research into the mechanics of porous media. Bringing together experts in petroleum engineering, geology, geophysics, civil engineering, computer science, and electrical engineering, iPMI bridges fundamental science with real-world applications.
With a strong emphasis on geomechanics for hydrocarbon exploration and production, iPMI supports both foundational research and cutting-edge innovation. OU proudly hosts one of the world’s premier programs in porous media mechanics, particularly rock mechanics—fueling advancements in energy development and beyond.
The Oklahoma Water Survey serves as the University of Oklahoma’s central resource for water-related research, education, and outreach. Focused on protecting and understanding the state’s vital water resources, the Survey monitors, analyzes, and shares data-driven insights on Oklahoma’s most pressing water challenges.
Through active collaboration with industry professionals, government agencies, researchers, educators, students, and communities, the Survey connects science with public service—empowering informed decisions and sustainable water solutions across the state.
The Water Technologies for Emerging Regions (WaTER) Center at the University of Oklahoma is committed to promoting peace and improving lives by delivering sustainable water and sanitation solutions in underserved regions. Through interdisciplinary teaching, transformative research, and service-driven leadership, the WaTER Center empowers communities to thrive.
Our vision is to lead global innovation in sustainable water technologies by integrating engineering, business, and social dimensions. By pioneering holistic approaches, the WaTER Center drives the development and adoption of water and sanitation solutions that foster health, education, and economic advancement across developing regions.
