Nicholas R. Patton
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​Nicholas R. Patton, PhD
 

Environmental & Construction Inspector 
Specializing in Geomorphology, Soil Science and Quaternary Geology 

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Curriculum vitae

About me
I am a geologist and environmental scientist with more than 10 years of experience leading multidisciplinary projects in geology, hydrogeology, environmental investigations, GIS, remote sensing, and natural resource management. My background spans academia, federal research, and environmental consulting, where I have managed projects from initial planning and field investigations through data analysis, technical reporting, and project delivery. Throughout my career, I have authored 31 scientific publications and reports, developed 10 publicly available datasets, received more than 830 citations, and secured over $500,000 in competitive research funding, demonstrating a proven ability to deliver high-quality, impactful scientific and technical outcomes.

I enjoy tackling environmental problems by combining field observations with spatial analysis and quantitative modelling. One of the highlights of my career has been serving as a principal investigator on the Idaho Global Entrepreneurial Mission Project 'Demonstration of Soil Thickness and Carbon Method' that evaluated the applicability of our patented model for predicting soil thickness and soil nutrient stocks across diverse landscapes for commercial marketing. 

After spending the last several years in research and higher education, I'm excited to transition back into the environmental consulting industry. I'm looking forward to applying my technical background to projects involving site investigations, hydrogeology, environmental due diligence, remediation, geologic hazards, and infrastructure development, work that has a direct impact on clients, communities, and the environment. I enjoy collaborating with people from different backgrounds, learning new skills, and finding practical solutions to complex problems. I'm always interested in connecting with others and I'm open to new opportunities where I can continue growing while making a meaningful contribution.

Doctorates of Philosophy (2020-2022)
  • Major: Geology
  • Focus: Landscape evolution, Paleoclimate, GIS, and geochronology 
  • Thesis Topic: Landscape evolution of the south east Queensland dunefields
  • Advisers: Dr. Jamie Shulmeister, Dr. Peter Almond,  Dr. Tim Stahl, and Dr. Tammy Rittenour
  • Committee Members: Dr. Kevin Welsh, Dr. Melanie Leng, and Dr. Matthew, Jones 
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https://www.canterbury.ac.nz/
Doctorates of Philosophy (2018-2020) ~ Transferred
  • Major: Geology
  • Focus: Paleoclimate, stable isotopes, lake sediments, and biogeochemistry
  • Thesis Topic: Reconstructing climate variability in sub-tropical Australia
  • ​Advisers: Dr. Jamie Shulmeister, Dr. Kevin Welsh, Dr. Melanie Leng, and Dr. Matt Jones
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http://uq.edu.au/
Masters of Science (2014-2016)
  • Major: Geology
  • Focus: Soil science, biogeochemistry, geomorphology, GIS, and spatial statistics
  • Thesis Topic: Modelling thickness of mobile regolith and soil nutrient stocks 
  • Adviser: Dr. Kathleen Lohse
  • Committee Members: Dr. Mark Seyfried, Dr. Sarah Godsey, and Dr. Benjamin Crosby
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https://www.isu.edu/
Bachelors of Science (2010-2013)
  • Double Major:  Chemistry and Geology
  • Focus: Hydrology, environmental chemistry, and aqueous chemistry
  • Thesis Topic: Aqueous chemistry and flow paths within streams and wetlands
  • Advisers: Dr. Min Li and Dr. Kyle Fredrick
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https://www.calu.edu/

Last edited 21 July, 2026
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