Meet EPA Scientist Randall R. Ross, Ph.D.
EPA hydrologist Dr. Randall Ross studies the impacts of enhanced aquifer recharge on groundwater quality and quantity using hydrogeologic, geophysical and geochemical methods. Enhanced aquifer recharge is an approach designed for rural and undeveloped environments with minimal infrastructure costs and landscape impacts. Dr. Ross is also the Director of the EPA’s Groundwater Technical Support Center.
Tell us about your background.
My first two degrees are in geology with a focus on hydrogeology from Oklahoma State (Go Pokes!). My Ph.D. is in environmental science from OU (Boomer Sooner!). I consider myself a reformed hydrogeologist who longs to beat on rocks with a rock hammer.
When did you first know you wanted to be a scientist?
I started with EPA in 1981 at the “Water Lab” – what locals call the Robert S. Kerr Environmental Research Laboratory - as an entry-level Physical Science Aid (i.e., washing glassware, doing Kuderna-Danish extractions and other technician level jobs—but mostly washing glassware). While participating in a field trip with now retired EPA hydrogeologist Jerry Thornhill, I realized I could get paid to do the things we were doing on the field trip that I thoroughly enjoyed!
What do you like most about your research?
Field work! A bad day in the field beats a great day in the office.
How does your science matter?
Our results can be used by others to enhance the amount of available groundwater resources, in a future where water scarcity will increasingly become a societal concern.
If you weren’t a scientist, what would you be doing?
A blacksmith, selling custom made Damascus steel knives at craft shows and online.
What advice would you give a student interested in a career in science?
While it is important to excel in math and science classes, don’t forget about English class – you must be able to communicate your research results in a clear, concise manner.
What do you think the coolest scientific discovery was and why?
The Higgs Boson gets us closer to the Theory of Everything!
If you could have dinner with any scientist, past or present, who would you choose?
Dr. Steven Hawking! For dessert, though not scientists, I would choose to sit down with Jesus, Mohamed, and the Buddha with a 15-year-old bottle of single malt (for me, tea for them) and try to gain clarity on the chaos that is life.
Editor's Note: The opinions expressed herein are those of the researcher alone. EPA does not endorse the opinions or positions expressed.