Projects

Current Projects

LSU Big Idea: AI-Enabled NNBS Workflows for Coastal and Defense Resilience

Funding: LSU Big Idea in STEM Provost's Fund
Role: Principal Investigator
Duration: 2026 - 2027

This project develops AI-enabled workflows that translate XBeach hydrodynamic simulation outputs into actionable design guidance for nature-based solutions in coastal and defense resilience contexts. Focusing on the LaBranche Wetlands site in Louisiana, the work supports baseline hydrodynamic characterization, model development, and the generation of pilot configuration-performance data for ecological levees and related coastal systems. The project advances simulation-to-design methods that connect environmental modeling with spatial design decision-making.

Virtual Reality-Augmented Learning Incubator

Funding: LSU Student Technology Fee Program
Role: Principal Investigator
Duration: 2025 - 2026

This project supports the development of the Virtual Reality-Augmented Learning Incubator (VR-ALI), an immersive platform for teaching, research, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The infrastructure enables students and researchers from landscape architecture, engineering, coastal sciences, architecture, and digital media to engage in complete environmental performance workflows spanning data collection, simulation, visualization, and design interpretation. The project expands capacity for interactive learning and research communication through immersive technologies.

LAF Case Study Investigation Research Fellowship

Funding: Landscape Architecture Foundation
Role: Research Fellow
Duration: 2026

This project evaluates the performance benefits of Gretna City Park through the Landscape Architecture Foundation Case Study Investigation program. Developed in partnership with CARBO Landscape Architecture and Waggonner & Ball, the work documents ecological, social, and economic outcomes of the park and advances evidence-based methods for measuring landscape performance.

DEEDS - Developing Engineering Practices for Ecosystem Design Solutions

Funding: U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC)
Role: Faculty Collaborator / Research Scientist
Duration: 2022 - 20256

DEEDS investigates the performance of natural and nature-based features (NNBFs) to improve coastal resilience. Using simulations such as XBeach, the project explores the potential of mangrove restoration and hybrid infrastructure to reduce flood risk and enhance ecological and social benefits. AXISD contributes simulation workflows and supports iterative design evaluation for nature-based interventions.

Concluded Projects

Digital Twins for Agrivoltaic and Floating Solar Farms

Funding: LSU Research for Energy Innovation (Phase I)
Role: Co-Principal Investigator
Duration: 2023 - 2025

This interdisciplinary project focuses on the development of digital twins for solar farms that integrate landscape design, hydrological modeling, and vegetation performance. The research supports the evaluation and optimization of renewable energy systems by simulating the interactions between solar infrastructure, native vegetation, and water flow. The goal is to develop best practices for sustainable site planning and ecological co-benefits in energy landscapes.

Urban-Level Digital Twin for Scalable Education and Design Integration

Funding: LSU Student Tech Fee Program
Role: Co-Principal Investigator
Duration: 2024 - 2025

This project develops a digital twin platform to enhance urban-scale education and design integration. By combining real-time data, AI tools, and 3D modeling, the initiative supports scalable learning environments and enables students and professionals to engage with complex urban systems in an interactive way. The platform bridges landscape architecture, urban planning, and data science to advance applied learning and design innovation.