Atmospheric & Climate Sciences
Atmospheric Chemistry & Composition
We model atmospheric chemical reactions as well as gas, aqueous and aerosol tropospheric chemistry at regional and global levels to understand the effects of natural and anthropogenic emissions of gases and aerosols on climate and air quality. Related observations are made at the UM Biological Station. Learn More
Climate Dynamics
We observe the atmospheric motions, assess their governing equations, investigate the complex interplay between the scales, study ocean dynamics, and model the general circulation of the atmosphere and employ direct numerical simulation techniques to resolve the complex physical processes that govern the weather and climate systems. Learn More
Climate Impacts & Resilience
We use models and remote sensing to analyze the impact of climate and weather events on society, develop techniques to evaluate the resilience of environmental systems to extreme events, and lead interdisciplinary teams that work with communities to help design equitable adaptation and mitigation plans. Learn More
Polar Processes
We study the polar regions, which play an important role in the global climate system. They are intricately connected to the Earth’s radiation budget, atmospheric and oceanic circulation, precipitation, and sea level rise. We research snow and ice microphysics, cryosphere-climate interactions, ice sheet and glacier evolution, and climate model development. Learn More
Remote Sensing Methods & Applications
We develop and apply the methods and date involved in remote sensing to investigate scientific questions. Our research also includes the application of remotely sensed data for the study of radiative transfer, atmospheric composition, ocean dynamics, cryosphere-climate interactions, and the hydrological cycle. Learn More
Water-Cycle Processes: Clouds, Precipitation, and Hydrology
We focus on both atmospheric and land surface water cycle processes. Atmospheric processes include the microphysics that govern cloud and precipitation formation, mesoscale circulations that influence cloud structure and convective development, and large-scale dynamics that shape atmospheric moisture transport. Land surface process research examines runoff generation, the impact of the Great Lakes on precipitation patterns like lake-effect snowstorms, the impact of land cover and land use changes on water fluxes at the watershed scale, and the modeling of surface and groundwater hydrologic processes. Learn More