the stochastic inverse problem for determining parameter values in a physics model from observational data on the output of the model forms the core of scientific inference and engineering design. we describe a recently developed formulation and solution method for stochastic inverse problems that is based on measure theory and a generalization of a contour map. in addition to a complete analytic and numerical theory, advantages of this approach include avoiding the introduction of ad hoc statistics models, unverifiable assumptions, and alterations of the model like regularization. we present a high-dimensional application to determination of parameter fields in storm surge models. we conclude with recent work on defining a notion of condition for stochastic inverse problems and the use in designing sets of optimal observable quantities.