My research group studies fundamental areas in the atmospheric sciences such as cloud formation and the role of aerosol particles in atmospheric chemistry and air quality. The effects of aerosol particles and cloud formation on climate are the largest sources of uncertainty in predicting anthropogenic activities on climate. The knowledge of aerosol chemistry and microphysics remains limited in both clean and polluted regions. In addition, the mechanims of cloud formation throughout the troposphere are not well known, thereby preventing more accurate forecasts on timescales from short-term weather forecasts to future climate.

To these research areas, my group develops novel optical sensors and deploys them in field campaigns in ground-based networks and on aircraft-based research platforms such as the NSF Gulfstream-V aircraft shown to the right. As part of the NSF Center for Mid-Infrared Technologies for Health and the Environment (MIRTHE), we apply new advances in state-of-the-art quantum cascade lasers and vertical cavity surface emitting lasers to problems of atmospheric importance. These new light sources allow for unprecedented capabilities to probe the atmosphere, thereby advancing the understanding of societal problems of air quality, global climate change, and ozone depletion.

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