Research

Sunlight falling on the Earth scatters when it encounters clouds. Sunlight also scatters when it intercepts particles in the air that contribute to cloud formation (aerosols).  The amount of sunlight scattered matters: more scattering cools the Earth and can act as the brake for global heating. Our group studies how sulfur affects aerosol formation which contributes to both scattering and cloud properties.

Intense precipitation events can create serious impacts on cities, towns and agriculture. What causes clouds to form, and for particles and droplets in clouds to grow to create precipitation?  Our group uses chemistry, physics and biology to look at what contributes to intense precipitation.

CO₂ pumped into geological formations can escape, reducing efficiency and displacing oxygen in the air close to the Earth's surface. We develop new technology to detect CO₂ leaks at trace levels and study how soils might be used to store CO₂.

• Laboratory investigations and analysis of samples: established methodologies and equipment as well as innovative technique development.
• Field sampling and experimentation: data gathered from the field.
• Data Analysis and System Modeling: 1D box models, chemical transformation, CALPUFF