Personal Statement
My research demonstrates the physical processes by which wood jams and vegetation affect flow, particle transport, and ecological health. I develop physically-based representations of these processes for modelling and design guidance using a combination of flume experiments, theoretical development and field observations, in order to improve the design and assessment of natural flood management projects and restoration interventions.

Research Overview
Dr Follett aims to demonstrates the physical processes by which wood jams and vegetation affect flow, particle transport, and ecological health, improving design and assessment of nature-based solutions for climate adaptive water infrastructure. Nature-based solutions that improve resilience to increased incidence of drought and flooding associated with climate change have recently received increased public interest and investment. However, intervention efficacy and long-term stability remain limited by knowledge gaps relating to the effect of interventions on underlying physical processes and poor model representation. Through flume experiments, theoretical development, and collaborative fieldwork and modelling including knowledge transfer with government, industry, and community project partners, my research develops technical confidence needed to develop nature-based solutions as an engineering tool for climate change adaptation.