From Tragedy to Transformation: Imaging the Invisible to Rebuild the Wyoming Valley
Presented by Dr. Bobak (Bobby) Karimi
Dr. Bobak (Bobby) Karimi, Associate Professor of Geology in the Biology & Earth Systems Sciences (BESS) Department, will deliver the 2026 Paul A. O’Hop Final Word Lecture.
Dr. Karimi’s lecture will explore how modern geophysical techniques are being used to investigate the hidden legacy of anthracite mining beneath Northeastern Pennsylvania. Drawing on regional events such as the Knox Mine Disaster and ongoing mine subsidence hazards, the talk highlights how Wilkes University students are applying gravity surveys, electrical resistivity tomography, and other subsurface imaging methods to detect underground voids, map hidden water pathways, and guide restoration efforts in partnership with local organizations and state agencies. This work demonstrates how place- based scientific research can help reduce risk, support environmental restoration, and transform a historic landscape of extraction into one focused on resilience and renewal.
Dr. Bobak Karimi is an Associate Professor of Geology in the Biology & Earth Systems Sciences (BESS) Department at Wilkes University. He holds a Ph.D. in Geology and conducts research at the intersection of geophysics, tectonics, geographic information science (GIS; including remote sensing), and environmental analysis. His work focuses on using geophysical and geospatial methods—including gravity, electrical resistivity tomography, and remote sensing—to investigate subsurface structures, environmental hazards (e.g., landslides), and post-mining landscapes. Much of his research is rooted in Northeastern Pennsylvania, where he works with students and community partners to study mine subsidence, groundwater flow, and landscape restoration in the anthracite coal region.
Dr. Karimi’s scholarship emphasizes applied, community-centered science that integrates undergraduate research with real-world environmental challenges. His students collaborate with regional partners such as the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), the Earth Conservancy, and watershed organizations to investigate subsurface hazards and inform restoration efforts across the Wyoming Valley. Through this work, students gain hands-on experience in geophysics, GIS, and environmental field methods while contributing to projects that address local infrastructure risk and ecosystem recovery.
A dedicated educator and mentor, Dr. Karimi teaches courses in geology, geophysics, GIS, and environmental science and is committed to place-based experiential learning. By integrating field research, geospatial technology, and community partnerships into the classroom, he prepares students to address complex environmental challenges in post- industrial landscapes and beyond.
About the Final Word Lecture
The annual Paul A. O'Hop Final Word Lecture was established by the late Paul O'Hop to foster the exchange of ideas and dialogue among faculty, staff and administrators and to showcase the talents and scholarly abilities at Wilkes University. O'Hop retired from Wilkes in 2001 after serving 16 years as vice president of business affairs and auxiliary enterprises.
Faculty honorees are selected via a competitive application process overseen by the Provost's Committee on Research.
Research and Scholarship at Wilkes
Because scholarship is one of Wilkes' core values, the University created the Research and Scholarship Fund to provide financial support to faculty for their work as scholars and creative practitioners.