Dr Richard Johnson, Senior Lecturer: Physical Geography
I joined Bath Spa University and CLRG (Changing Landscapes Research Group) in May 2011 from engineering consultancy (Halcrow Group Limited, Birmingham), where I was a Geomorphologist and Project Manager. Prior to this I was a Lecturer in Physical Geography and Geography Course Leader at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLAN). My degrees are from Nottingham (BSc) and Durham (PhD). I specialise in upland geomorphology and applied fluvial geomorphology.
Teaching: I am Module Leader for GE5019-20 Environmental Hazards- a module exploring hazard and risk, and their assessment and management. I also contribute to a number of other modules here at Bath Spa, drawing on my combined academic and commercial backgrounds. As well as delivering leading edge material in my own modules, I continually develop my teaching experience and professional skills through training events and peer review.
Research: As part of CLRG my research is concerned with sediment fluxes in mountainous catchments and flood geomorphology/ palaeohydrology of mountain rivers. These investigations apply scientific approaches to the benefit of societal stakeholders. Current work focuses on the English Lake District and Northern England and has a number of key themes: (1) processes, and the spatial and temporal dynamics of sediment transfer; (2) connectivity of hillslope and channel sub-systems in low-order drainage basins; (3) management of upland erosion; and (4) meteorological monitoring and flood reconstruction.
Applied Geomorphological Consultancy Services: I provide applied geomorphological services to national and international clients considering issues associated with rivers, landslides, coastal margins, and upland windfarms. My particular areas of expertise relates to river catchments, including the characterisation/ reconnaissance of channel corridors; flood impact and sediment dynamics assessments; appraisal of engineering structure addition or removal; and integrated channel restoration and design. I continue to provide specialist professional advice to clients on these issues. In recognition of my practice and continuing professional development in these fields I am both a Chartered Geologist (CGeol) and Geomorphologist (CGeog [Geomorph]).
