Our Team

Marisol Dominguez-Tuda, PhD

Dr. Marisol Domínguez, Ph.D. is an Earth scientist whose work focuses on water resources, and climate-driven environmental change. She earned both her B.S. and Ph.D. in Geological Sciences from The University of Texas at El Paso. Her research integrates satellite observations, field measurements, and hydrologic modeling to assess water availability, ecosystem sensitivity, and resource vulnerability across diverse landscapes. In addition to her scientific work, Dr. Domínguez is a geoscience communicator, translating complex Earth science concepts through education, media, and public engagement, and a wildlife painter who uses art to connect science, nature, and storytelling.

Erik J. Kappus , PhD

Dr. Eric J. Kappus, Ph.D. Dr. is a geoscientist, educator, and research paleontologist with more than two decades of experience spanning geological consulting, environmental remediation, geoscience education, and public outreach. He earned a Ph.D. and M.S. in Geological Sciences from The University of Texas at El Paso, with research focused on regional soil geochemistry, ichnology, and geoscience education, and holds a B.S. in Outdoor Education with a minor in Environmental Biology. Dr. Kappus has served as a research paleontologist with the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science since 2003 and has played a leading role in the discovery, development, and interpretation of the Cerro de Cristo Rey dinosaur track sites. His work bridges academic research, applied environmental projects, and community-based education, with appointments ranging from university teaching and graduate program development to advisory roles with federal agencies, municipalities, and nonprofit organizations. He has authored and co-authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations and is widely recognized for his contributions to geoscience education, conservation, and public engagement in the U.S.–Mexico border region.

Philip Goodell, Ph.D.

Dr. Philip C. Goodell, Ph.D. is an Earth scientist and professor. He holds a B.S. in Physics from Yale University and a Ph.D. in Geological Sciences from Harvard University where his dissertation focused on the geology and geochemistry of mining districts. Dr. Goodell is a leader in economic geology, mineralogy, geochemistry, nuclear science and applied Earth science, mentoring graduate students at the University of Texas at El Paso and contributing extensively to regional and global understanding of mineral systems and tectonics. His work emphasizes mineral exploration, ore deposit processes, and the practical integration of geoscience research with fieldwork and applied techniques.

Omar Dominguez

Omar Domínguez is an R&D engineer with experience supporting applied research in interdisciplinary engineering and scientific environments. He earned both his B.S. and M.S. in Mechanical Engineering from The University of Texas at El Paso, and his work spans engineering design, systems analysis, and problem-solving across complex technical projects. At Budyko Research Institute, he provides engineering expertise and strategic insight that support applied Earth science research, field programs, and technology-enabled initiatives.