CSU Geology Professor Ellen Wohl to Retire by 2028
The renowned researcher plans to step down after the 2027-28 academic year at Colorado State University.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Geology
Live Poll
Do you plan to remain professionally active in your field after you eventually retire?
Colorado State University geology professor Ellen Wohl plans to retire at the end of the 2027-28 academic year. She intends to remain active in her research and writing after leaving her faculty position.
Why it matters
Wohl has shaped the field of hydrology through extensive global research, most recently receiving the 2026 Robert E. Horton Medal for her contributions. Her career has significantly influenced academic mentorship and the scientific understanding of river systems.
Wohl has conducted river research on every continent except Antarctica and maintains a long-term interest in ecological recovery. This includes a 38-year analysis of Yellowstone wildfire impacts revisited in 2026.
The players
Ellen Wohl
She is a geology professor at Colorado State University and a recipient of the 2026 Robert E. Horton Medal for her work in hydrology.
Colorado State University
This is the Fort Collins institution where Ellen Wohl has served as a faculty member conducting research and mentoring students.
The Geological Society of America
This organization promotes the geosciences and administers professional conferences where Wohl presents her research findings.
The details
During her tenure at Colorado State University, Wohl has utilized her faculty role to mentor graduate students and support the field through donations to The Geological Society of America. In May 2026, she presented findings from her recent Yellowstone wildfire fieldwork at The Geological Society of America Conference.
Timeline
1984: Wohl earned her bachelor's degree from Arizona State University.
1988: Wohl earned her Ph.D. from the University of Arizona.
May 2026: Wohl presented research at The Geological Society of America Conference.
Summer 2026: Wohl conducted fieldwork on Yellowstone wildfires.
2027-28 academic year: Wohl plans to retire.
The Big Picture
The 2026 Robert E. Horton Medal marks a significant milestone in hydrology research that validates the career-long contributions made by Wohl to the discipline. Her retirement follows the career-capping recognition represented by the award.
Students at Colorado State University will see a transition in faculty leadership within the geosciences department. Future research in river hydrology will continue to be informed by the extensive datasets Wohl has cultivated over her decades of field study.
The takeaway
Retirement does not signal an end to Wohl's scientific output, as she plans to continue her research and writing. Her career serves as an example of how academic roles can balance intensive global fieldwork with long-term student mentorship.
Further reading
Learn more about local scientific developments in the Geology section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Rocky Mountain Collegian.
Live Poll
Do you plan to remain professionally active in your field after you eventually retire?
