Currently, a poor understanding of particles in the atmosphere and the clouds that form on them limits our ability to understand and quantify global warming. The focus of our research is to develop a better understanding of how natural and anthropogenic aerosol particles influence aerosol/cloud interactions on local to global scales. Using novel analytical techniques, we can observe ice cloud nucleation under atmospheric conditions. Through a combination of field studies and laboratory experiments, we explore how concentration, chemical composition, surface chemical reactions, and shape of aerosols impact cloud formation and properties.

Recent air quality studies in Texas have shown that chemical and particulate pollutants can travel significant distances and therefore may change air quality and aerosol/cloud interactions throughout an entire region. In statewide air quality studies, we will investigate how urban and rural contributions to aerosols influence aerosol radiative properties, visibility, and human health. Also, by participating in large scale global campaigns, we measure concentrations and compositions of aerosols facilitate nucleation of ice crystals and warm cloud droplets. In laboratory studies, we investigate ice nucleation of aerosols with known chemical compositions. We also explore the chemical reactions occurring on the surface of the aerosols and attempt to understand how these processes alter the aerosols and their role in cloud formation processes. These combined studies may provide a better understanding of complex aerosol/cloud interactions, and therefore may improve our ability to predict human impact on future climate change.
AWARDS
PECASE 2007, Presidential Early Career Award in Science and Engineering
(awarded by the White House, nominated through USDA)
National Science Foundation CAREER Award, 2006