Dr. James M. Kaihatu
Field of Focus
- Mathematics
- Physical Oceanography
- Physics
Area of Expertise
Nearshore Waves and Processes
Education
- B.S. Civil Engineering, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, CA, USA, 1986
- M.S. Civil Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA, 1987
- Ph.D. Civil Engineering, University of Delaware, DE, USA, 1994
Dr. Kaihatu works on development of accurate and efficient models for the dynamics of nearshore processes. Model development is done in such a way as to render the completed model useful in operational contexts. This involves the use of data assimilation to enhance the accuracy of forecasts. Special emphasis is placed on the representation of nonlinear wave-wave interaction and wave breaking effects.