Erfan Goharian
Assistant Professor
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
Dr. Erfan Goharian's research is centered on harnessing Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques and Systems Analysis tools to advance the effective and informed management of water and environmental resources.
Dr. Erfan Goharian specializes in developing complex quantitative, data-driven, and computational models, including machine learning and image processing models, with the primary aim of advancing our understanding of interactions within integrated human-natural systems, particularly in the context of managing extreme conditions such as floods and droughts. His research delves into how these interactions are influenced by a spectrum of factors, including new technologies, climate dynamics, environmental changes, economic shifts, social dynamics, and political influences. Beyond his extensive technical expertise, he possesses valuable experience advising governmental agencies, collaborating across diverse institutions, and bridging disciplinary boundaries.
Prior to joining the University of South Carolina, Dr. Goharian led research efforts focusing on the re-operation of integrated water systems in California as part of the University of California Water Security and Sustainability Research Initiative (UC Water). Dr. Goharian holds a Ph.D. degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering with a specialization in Water Resources Management from the University of Utah.
Contact
OFFICE LOCATION
Room C206
300 Main St
Columbia, SC 29201
Email
goharian@cec.sc.edu
Phone
803-777-4625
iWERS Research Group
The primary goal of the iWERS group is to develop innovative techniques to improve informed management of integrated water and environmental resources using systems and artificial intelligence approaches.
Our mission at iWERS aligns with the nation's research priority in climate adaptation. We are committed to advancing scientific knowledge pertaining to water and environmental resources issues, such as floodings, while simultaneously establishing a new generation of smart technologies, accelerated modeling, and informative management tools, such as innovative smart early warning systems and active flood control infrastructure.
Our endeavor seeks to bridge crucial gaps in data availability and contemporary modeling, need for accelerated flood modeling and data analytics, and informed decision making process. We accomplish this by harnessing a wide array of heterogeneous data sources, including distributed data and visual information, real-time model updating, active measurements, and dynamic management strategies.
In addition to our research activities, we are dedicated to education and outreach efforts that serve several key objectives. These include the training of the next generation of AI-enabled engineers and scientists, fostering flood-aware communities, and informing decision-makers.
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- Integrated Water Resources Modeling and Management
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Systems Thinking and Analysis
- Hydroinformatics
- Multi-objective Optimization and Decision Making in Coupled Human-Natural Systems
Opportunities
We welcome undergraduate and graduate students, visiting scholars and postdocs who are motivated, talented, and hardworking to join our research group. Please look at the current projects and research webpages of iWERS to find out more about our interests. Prospective students should have a strong interest in integrated water resources management, hydrology, systems analysis and modeling, and computer science. Prospective candidates are strongly encouraged to contact Dr. Goharian with providing your updated resume. Opportunities are available year-round!”
