Bio


Elizabeth (she/her) is a PhD Candidate in Earth System Science at the Doerr School of Sustainability. Her research investigates the human-environment interactions by quantifying the effects of climate and land use on surface processes, with particular emphasis on cascading disasters. The goal of this research is to inform adaptation efforts that enhance human and ecosystem well-being, while reducing shared socioeconomic outcomes and disparities. Prior to starting her PhD, she earned an MS in Marine Science from the University of San Diego and a BS in Earth and Environmental Science from Furman University. In addition to academic research and teaching experience, she previously served as an Energy Policy Analyst in San Diego, California.

Education & Certifications


  • M.S., University of San Diego, Marine Science
  • B.S., Furman University, Earth and Environmental Science

All Publications


  • Quantifying the Effect of Precipitation on Landslide Hazard in Urbanized and Non-Urbanized Areas Geophysical Research Letters Johnston, E. C., Davenport, F. V., Wang, L., Caers, J. K., Muthukrishnan, S., Burke, M., Diffenbaugh, N. S. 2021; 48 (16)

    View details for DOI 10.1029/2021GL094038