Ben Kopec

Ben Kopec is an Assistant Research Scientist at the Great Lakes Research Center (GLRC) and an Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geospatial Engineering at Michigan Technological University. His research focuses on Arctic water cycle dynamics, water isotope geochemistry, and interactions between ice, oceans, lakes, and the atmosphere. Key interests include studying freshwater sources, ocean mixing processes, and the impacts of cryosphere changes on hydrologic systems.

His work integrates field observations from expeditions like ARTofMELT in the Arctic Ocean and shipboard surveys in Baffin Bay. Recent studies explore evaporation-driven lake isotopic variability, seawater isotopic tracing of freshwater influxes, and the role of biological aerosols in Arctic cloud formation.

Ben’s research leverages isotopic measurements (δ¹⁸O, δ²H) to trace moisture sources, track climate signals in aquatic systems, and advance understanding of Arctic hydrology’s response to global warming. He collaborates internationally through initiatives like MOSAiC’s Pan Arctic Water Isotope Network, highlighting sea ice’s influence on atmospheric moisture and precipitation patterns.

No scientific awards or grants are explicitly listed in the provided materials. He is affiliated with the GLRC, contributing to interdisciplinary studies at the intersection of environmental science, oceanography, and climate modeling.