Find Academic Supervisors

Maria J. MolinaView profile

Assistant Professor

• Climate Science
• Machine Learning
• Extreme Weather Events
• +4 more

Maria J. Molina is an Assistant Professor within the Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Science at the University of Maryland and an Affiliate Faculty with the University of Maryland Institute for Advanced Computer Studies (UMIACS). She is also affiliated with the NSF National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) and serves as an Adjunct Assistant Professor within the Department of Marine, Earth, and Atmospheric Sciences at North Carolina State University. Dr. Molina holds leadership positions including Vice-Chair of the AMS STAC Committee on Artificial Intelligence Applications to Environmental Science, member of the WCRP Scientific Steering Group for the Earth System Modelling and Observations (ESMO) Core Project, and member of the AMS Board on Representation, Accessibility, Inclusion, and Diversity (BRAID). Dr. Molina's research focuses on the application of machine learning tools (e.g., neural networks) and numerical modeling systems (e.g., CESM) to answer pressing questions in the domains of climate and extremes. Her PARETO (Predictability and Applied Research for the Earth-system with Training and Optimization) research group tackles problems including extending Earth system prediction, understanding genesis of extremes, and uncovering multi-scale patterns in the climate system. Her work emphasizes open-source software, accessible communication, and multi-disciplinary collaboration, particularly with computer science. Current research directions involve applying AI/ML methods to explore Earth system dynamics, parameterizing subgrid scale processes, and investigating causal patterns in the climate system. NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP) Award for students she advises (Jonathan Starfeldt, Dean Calhoun) Dr. Molina advises numerous graduate students including PhD candidates and MS students working on diverse topics from ENSO dynamics to urban heat extremes. Her group maintains active collaborations with NCAR, NASA, and other institutions. Current research projects include deep learning applications for convection prediction (deep-conus), machine learning for mesoscale convective systems detection (ML-extremes-mcs), climate signal processing (climatico), subseasonal bias correction (s2sml), and neural networks for physical sciences education (UMDAOSC650). Her research group maintains strong connections with the broader scientific community through GitHub repositories, active participation in WCRP-CMIP initiatives, and collaborations across multiple institutions. The PARETO group emphasizes open science practices and interdisciplinary approaches to tackle complex Earth system challenges.

Da-Lin ZhangView profile

Professor

• Mesoscale Meteorology
• Tropical Cyclone Dynamics
• Numerical Weather Prediction
• +3 more

Da-Lin Zhang is a Professor at the University of Maryland, specializing in mesoscale meteorology and tropical cyclone dynamics. His work focuses on modeling severe weather systems such as squall lines, hurricanes, and heavy rainfall events, particularly examining their interactions with urbanization, topography, and environmental parameters. He develops advanced numerical models like the DSAEF_LTP to improve quantitative precipitation forecasts and tropical cyclone predictions. Research interests include the impact of urbanization on rainfall intensity, parameterization techniques for mesoscale models, and the climatology of extreme weather events. His studies combine observational data with high-resolution simulations to explore mechanisms behind cyclone intensification, convective system evolution, and precipitation patterns influenced by human and natural factors. Key contributions include analyzing the role of aerosols in extreme rainfall, improving forecast models for landfalling tropical cyclones, and understanding the dynamics of lake-effect snowbands. His work frequently integrates interdisciplinary approaches, such as linking lightning activity to rainfall intensity and assessing the climatic impacts of urban heat islands on precipitation distribution. Laboratory and collaborative efforts involve projects like the Southern China Monsoon Rainfall Experiment (SCMREX), focusing on observational analysis and model validation. While no specific advisees are listed, his research teams likely include graduate students and postdoctoral researchers working on these critical atmospheric science challenges.

• Climate Dynamics
• Meteorology
• Atmospheric Science
• +3 more

Simon Peatman is a climate researcher with a focus on tropical meteorology and climate dynamics. He holds a PhD from the University of East Anglia (2014), where his doctoral work examined interactions between the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) and the diurnal cycle over the Maritime Continent. His research interests include air-sea coupling, monsoon systems, tropical cyclones, and high-resolution climate modeling. Peatman has contributed to studies on the Indian summer monsoon, intraseasonal variability in the Bay of Bengal, and the impact of the MJO on regional rainfall patterns in Papua New Guinea. Education: PhD in Meteorology/Climate Science, University of East Anglia, 2014 Research Focus: Peatman's work emphasizes understanding climate processes such as MJO propagation, the role of diurnal cycles in tropical convection, and the effects of horizontal resolution in climate models. His studies often involve collaboration with operational forecasting centers like the Met Office, focusing on improving model simulations of tropical weather systems. Key Contributions: His recent work evaluates convection-permitting atmosphere-ocean simulations over the Maritime Continent and explores air-sea coupling impacts on monsoon forecasts. He has also investigated tropical cyclone precipitation patterns and the influence of moisture entrainment on equatorial waves. Collaborations & Grants: Peatman has collaborated with international teams on projects such as BoBBLE (Bay of Bengal Ocean-Atmosphere-Biogeochemistry-Biosphere Linkages Experiment), studying ocean-atmosphere interactions affecting South Asian monsoons. Labs/Teams: Affiliated with climate modeling groups focused on tropical meteorology, though specific lab affiliations are not explicitly stated.

Caroline MullerView profile

Professor

• Atmospheric Science
• Climate Science
• Meteorology
• +3 more

Caroline Muller is a Professor at the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (IST Austria), leading a research group focused on atmospheric dynamics, moist convection, and climate science. She has extensive teaching experience, including courses on meteorology, linear algebra, and cloud dynamics at institutions like ENS Paris and NYU. Her research group investigates mesoscale convective systems, tropical climate processes, and the impacts of climate change on precipitation patterns. Notable projects include studies on convective self-aggregation, tropical cyclones, and the interplay between radiative cooling and convection. Affiliations: IST Austria, ENS Paris, NYU Research Themes: Moist convection, tropical meteorology, climate modeling, and atmospheric dynamics Recent work explores how organizational features of convective systems influence extreme precipitation and climate projections. Her group has advised over 30 students and postdocs, many of whom have gone on to prestigious academic or professional roles. Collaborative projects include analyses of water isotopic composition in tropical cyclones and contributions to initiatives like the EUREC4A field campaign. Key Collaborations: CFMIP, IIASA, Columbia University Teaching spans undergraduate and graduate levels, emphasizing foundational mathematics and applied meteorology. Current research integrates causal representation learning with climate dynamics to improve predictive models.

Vinay KumarView profile

Assistant Professor

• Atmospheric Science
• Climate Modeling
• Monsoon Systems
• +4 more

Dr. Vinay Kumar is an Assistant Professor of Meteorology at the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) in San Antonio, TX, where he teaches courses such as Meteorology, Meteorological Instrumentation, and Physical Geography and Meteorology. His academic journey began with a B.S. in Physics-Chemistry-Mathematics from Rohilkhand University (1995), followed by an M.S. in Physics (1997) from the Indian Institute of Technology, an M.Tech in Atmospheric Physics (2000), and a Ph.D. in Atmospheric Science (2008) from Pune University, India. Ph.D. in Atmospheric Science (Pune University, 2008) M.Tech in Atmospheric Physics (Pune University, 2000) M.S. in Physics (Indian Institute of Technology, 1997) B.S. in Physics-Chemistry-Mathematics (Rohilkhand University, 1995) Dr. Kumar's research focuses on extreme weather events, monsoon systems, droughts, and tropical cyclones. His work explores climate modeling, pollution dynamics during lockdowns, and the impacts of changing crop patterns on water resources. Recent publications in journals like Climate , Atmosphere , and Remote Sensing highlight his expertise in atmospheric science and climate change. His 15 most recent articles (2019–2023) address topics such as fog dynamics in the Indo-Gangetic Plain, monsoon rainfall trends, and the radiative impacts of aerosols. These works span subfields including climate resilience, disaster management, and computational modeling. Dr. Kumar is committed to community service and mentoring students to tackle global challenges through collaboration.

Julia WindmillerView profile

Researcher

• Climate Physics
• Tropical Meteorology
• Atmospheric Convection
• +7 more

Dr. Julia Windmiller is a Group Leader in the Department of Climate Physics at the Max Planck Institute for Meteorology (MPI-M), where she leads the Tropical Cloud Observations research group. Her work focuses on understanding the dynamics of tropical convection, particularly within the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), using observational data, climate models, and field campaigns such as ORCESTRA and EUREC4A. She is actively involved in major international research efforts, including co-leading the RV SONNE cruise 'Mooring Rescue' to study ocean-atmosphere interactions in the tropical Atlantic. Her research interests include: Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) dynamics Convective downdrafts and updrafts Cloud organization and self-aggregation Observational meteorology Storm-resolving climate modeling Ocean-atmosphere coupling in the tropics Her recent publications reveal new insights into the doldrums and surface convergence in the Atlantic ITCZ, challenging long-standing theories. These findings have been highlighted by the American Geophysical Union (AGU) and recognized by Science journal. Her work combines satellite observations, in-situ measurements, and high-resolution simulations to improve understanding of tropical climate processes. Notable scientific recognitions include: Featured in an AGU press release Work acknowledged by Science journal Dr. Windmiller collaborates extensively with leading climate scientists such as Bjorn Stevens and Cathy Hohenegger. She has played key roles in major observational campaigns and contributes to advancing storm-resolving climate models. While specific students or advisees are not listed, her leadership in research groups and field projects suggests active mentorship and collaboration with early-career scientists. She is based at MPI-M in Hamburg, Germany, with office B 431.

Frauke FeserView profile

Researcher

• Climate Science
• Meteorology
• Coastal Climate Modeling
• +4 more

Frauke Feser is a senior researcher at the Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon , Institute of Coastal Systems - Analysis and Modeling, leading the Coordination of Storm Themes team. Her work focuses on cyclone dynamics, climate change impacts on storm patterns, and regional climate modeling. Key research areas include: Extreme weather event attribution using spectral nudging Arctic and North Atlantic storm activity trends Coastal climate risk assessment and adaptation Validation of regional climate models against observations Her recent publications analyze: Climate change effects on marine heatwaves Comparative studies of storm datasets Methodological advances in dynamical downscaling Historical storm reconstructions using pressure data She actively investigates: Cyclone formation under warming scenarios Regional climate model performance metrics Storm impact forecasting systems Interactions between large-scale circulation and coastal weather

Daniel ChavasView profile

Associate Professor

• natural hazard physics
• tropical cyclones
• weather and climate variability
• +6 more

Daniel Chavas is an Associate Professor of Atmospheric Science in the Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences at Purdue University's College of Science. He leads the Extreme Weather Laboratory and serves as co-lead of the Risk and Resilience Research Community within Purdue's Institute for a Sustainable Future. Dr. Chavas' research focuses on natural hazard physics, tropical cyclones, weather and climate variability, climate change, risk analysis, and societal impacts of extreme weather. His work combines fundamental understanding of hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe thunderstorms with practical applications for hazard modeling and risk assessment. He has made significant contributions to understanding how tropical cyclones expand over warmer sea surface temperatures and the structural factors affecting cyclone persistence. His research group conducts use-inspired fundamental and applied research on extreme weather in a warming world. His recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on tropical cyclone dynamics, risk assessment, and the intersection of climate science with societal impacts. The research spans theoretical modeling of hurricane structure, analysis of global tropical cyclone exposure patterns, and examination of tornado formation mechanisms in relation to large-scale weather systems. NSF Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) award recipient 2024 Outstanding Early Career Award from the American Meteorological Society Committee on Tropical Meteorology and Tropical Cyclones Founder of the Purdue Weather Risk Internship program Active science communicator with contributions to The Conversation and the Climate Scientists podcast Dr. Chavas founded the Purdue Weather Risk Internship program, connecting students with opportunities in weather-dependent decision-making. His educational background includes a PhD in Atmospheric Science from MIT (advised by Prof Kerry Emanuel), a B.S. in Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences and Applied Mathematics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and an NSF Postdoctoral Research Fellowship at Princeton University (advised by Prof Ning Lin). His interdisciplinary approach bridges atmospheric science with practical applications for improving risk assessment and decision-making in weather-dependent industries.

• Mass Extinctions
• Paleontology
• Ordovician-Silurian Periods
• +5 more

Peter Sheehan is an Emeritus Adjunct Professor in the Department of Geosciences at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM), affiliated with the College of Letters & Science. He holds the Robert and Sally Manegold Distinguished Curatorial Chair at the Milwaukee Public Museum and has served as Curator III, IV, and V there. His academic career spans over five decades, with a PhD in Paleontology from UC Berkeley (1971) and an MA from the same institution (1967). He has held adjunct professorships at UWM since 1977 and previously lectured at the University of Western Ontario (1972-1973) and conducted postdoctoral research in Sweden (1971-1972). His research focuses on mass extinctions, particularly the Late Ordovician and Cretaceous-Paleogene events, brachiopod community ecology, and the ecological aftermath of extinction crises. Key projects include studying microbial mat expansion post-Ordovician extinction, K/T asteroid impact effects, and Silurian faunal radiations. He also investigates modern glacial meltwater dynamics in Antarctic regions like the Bellingshausen and Amundsen Seas. Professional Affiliations: Fellow of the Geological Society of America and Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, among others. Research Themes: Extinction mechanisms, sequence stratigraphy, paleobiogeography, and climate-ocean interactions. Fieldwork: Extensive work in the Great Basin (USA), Estonia, and Antarctica. Recent publications emphasize Antarctic ice shelf dynamics, Bay of Bengal monsoon influences, and glacial meltwater pathways. His work bridges paleontology with modern environmental science, addressing both historical and contemporary Earth system challenges.

Steven KruegerView profile

Professor

• Cloud Systems
• Turbulence
• Boundary Layer Meteorology
• +3 more

Steven Krueger is a Professor at the University of Utah, where he leads the Clouds, Turbulence, and Fire Weather Research Group . His research focuses on atmospheric processes including cloud systems dynamics, turbulence, boundary layer interactions, and fire weather modeling. Krueger employs advanced numerical techniques like Large Eddy Simulation (LES) and cloud-resolving models to study convection, cloud physics, and climate feedback mechanisms. Research Interests: Krueger's work spans cloud modeling (from stratocumulus to cumulonimbus), convective cold pools, stratocumulus entrainment, and wildfire-atmosphere interactions. Key methodologies include LES benchmarks (e.g., GigaLES), super-parameterized climate models (SP-CAM), and observational data analysis from field campaigns like KWAJEX. Publication Trends: His recent articles (2007–2012) emphasize cloud microphysics, turbulence parameterization, fire weather simulations, and Arctic climate feedbacks. Work demonstrates consistent application of high-resolution modeling to quantify convection dynamics, aerosol impacts, and precipitation processes across diverse climates. Group Leadership: Krueger directs a team studying cloud physics, fire weather, and convective analysis. Current projects include developing tools to quantify cloud responses to climate states and improving wildfire spread models through turbulence analysis.

Brian F. FarrellView profile

Professor

• Dynamic Meteorology
• Climate Science
• Atmospheric Turbulence
• +7 more

Brian F. Farrell is the Robert P. Burden Professor of Meteorology and holds a joint appointment in the Department of Earth and Planetary Science at Harvard University. His research focuses on dynamic meteorology, atmospheric turbulence, and the predictability of cyclonic systems. He explores how large-scale atmospheric order emerges from turbulent chaos, with applications to Earth's climate and planetary atmospheres. Research Interests: Jet stream turbulence and cyclogenesis Fluid dynamics and perturbation growth Climate regulation via storm tracks and heat/momentum transfer Stochastic analysis of planetary atmospheric systems Contact: Geological Museum 452, 24 Oxford St, Cambridge MA 02138 | farrell@seas.harvard.edu

Daniel ChavasView profile

Associate Professor

• Natural Hazard Physics
• Tropical Cyclones
• Weather and Climate Variability
• +3 more

Dr. Daniel Chavas is an Associate Professor of Atmospheric Science in the Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences at Purdue University. He leads the Extreme Weather Laboratory, focusing on extreme weather dynamics in a warming climate. His research spans tropical cyclones, tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, and climate change impacts, with emphasis on hazard physics and societal risk analysis. Chavas holds a PhD from MIT and B.S. degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and has held postdoctoral and research roles at institutions including Princeton University and the Joint Global Change Research Institute. Research interests include advancing understanding of hurricane formation mechanisms, tornado climatology, and severe storm environments. He has received the NSF CAREER Award and the AMS Early Career Award, and leads initiatives like the Purdue Weather Risk Internship program. Chavas is involved in interdisciplinary projects such as the Institute for a Sustainable Future's Risk and Resilience Research Community, integrating climate science with societal applications. His work bridges fundamental atmospheric processes with applied research, including collaborations on exoplanetary weather modeling and historical cyclone exposure analysis. Notable contributions include studies on tropical cyclone size expansion, tornado-terrain interactions, and the climatological relationship between U.S. tornadoes and extratropical cyclones. Scientific awards include the 2024 Outstanding Early Career Award from AMS's Tropical Meteorology Committee and NSF CAREER funding. His research has been published in top journals like PNAS , Journal of Climate , and Geophysical Research Letters . Chavas advises students through Purdue's EAPS department and has mentored interns in weather-dependent decision-making roles. His lab's work addresses both basic science questions and real-world applications, such as improving cyclone risk assessments and understanding future storm environment changes under global warming.

Adam SobelView profile

Professor

• Atmospheric Science
• Climate Dynamics
• Tropical Meteorology
• +3 more

Adam Sobel is a Professor of Applied Physics and Applied Mathematics and of Earth and Environmental Sciences at Columbia University's Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory and Engineering School. His research focuses on the dynamics of climate and weather phenomena, particularly in the tropics, with recent emphasis on understanding risks to human society from extreme weather events and climate change. Dr. Sobel's research spans atmospheric science with particular expertise in tropical meteorology , climate dynamics , and extreme weather events . His work examines the physical mechanisms behind tropical convection, hurricane formation and behavior, and the impacts of climate change on weather extremes. He has developed innovative approaches to assess climate risk and the value of information for climate adaptation decision-making, effectively bridging fundamental atmospheric science with practical applications for society. Analysis of Dr. Sobel's recent publications reveals a strong focus on tropical cyclone risk assessment in a changing climate, with particular attention to uncertainty quantification. His research spans from fundamental atmospheric dynamics (tropical convection, cold pools, boundary layer processes) to applied risk modeling for hurricanes and heatwaves. Geographically, his work covers the tropical Pacific, North Atlantic, South Asia, and South America, with detailed case studies on events like Hurricane Sandy and the 2023 Rio de Janeiro heatwave. Dr. Sobel has authored or co-authored over 150 peer-reviewed scientific articles and a popular book titled Storm Surge about Hurricane Sandy. His research has significant societal implications, as evidenced by his numerous op-eds connecting climate science to public policy and risk management. Dr. Sobel leads research that combines theoretical atmospheric science with practical applications for climate risk management. His work often involves interdisciplinary collaborations and has contributed to advancing methodologies for assessing tropical cyclone hazards and the societal impacts of extreme weather events in the context of climate change.

Michael TjernströmView profile

Professor

• Boundary Layer Meteorology
• Arctic Climate Studies
• Mesoscale Dynamics
• +3 more

Michael Tjernström is a Professor and Director of PhD Studies at the Department of Meteorology, Stockholm University, within the Faculty of Science. His research focuses on boundary-layer meteorology, Arctic climate dynamics, and mesoscale atmospheric processes. He leads field expeditions such as ARTofMELT and MOSAiC, studying Arctic cloud systems, sea ice melt mechanisms, and atmospheric interactions with the polar environment. Tjernström’s work bridges observational data, modeling, and climate theory, addressing critical gaps in understanding Arctic amplification and global climate feedbacks. Key research themes include turbulence in stable boundary layers, Arctic cloud radiative effects, and the role of atmospheric rivers in driving melt events. He has conducted extensive ship-based campaigns in the Arctic Ocean, deploying advanced instrumentation to measure aerosols, clouds, and surface energy budgets. His contributions to the ECMWF model evaluation and COMBLE campaign further highlight his expertise in bridging observation and numerical prediction. Teaching responsibilities include dynamic meteorology, boundary-layer processes, and climate science courses. His publications span over 15 years of Arctic-focused studies, emphasizing the urgency of polar climate research in a rapidly warming world.

Matthew D. EastinView profile

Associate Professor

• Tropical Cyclones
• Severe Weather
• Urban Meteorology
• +3 more

Dr. Matthew D. Eastin is an Associate Professor in the Department of Earth, Environmental and Geographical Sciences at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. His academic career spans roles in tropical cyclone research, urban meteorology, and severe weather analysis, with a focus on societal and environmental impacts. University: University of North Carolina at Charlotte Department: Earth, Environmental and Geographical Sciences Education: Dr. Eastin earned his B.S. in Meteorology from Purdue University and completed his graduate studies at Colorado State University, where he worked with the NOAA Hurricane Research Division. Research Interests: His work examines physical processes in atmospheric systems, including urban heat islands, tropical cyclone structure, and severe weather in complex terrain. He also investigates climate's role in dengue fever transmission and power outage prediction during thunderstorms. Recent Article Trends: His publications bridge urban climate analysis, tropical cyclone dynamics, and public health. Key themes include spatiotemporal modeling of heat islands, supercell behavior in elevated terrain, and climate-informed dengue outbreak prediction. Advising: Mentored thesis students on urban heat islands, dengue fever, and tropical cyclone tornadoes. Grants: Funded by UNC Charlotte, Duke Energy, NOAA CSTAR, and the National Science Foundation. Labs & Collaborations: Dr. Eastin collaborates with NOAA Hurricane Research Division, National Weather Service offices, and academic institutions like Lehigh University and Louisiana Tech University. He leads projects on urban climate resilience and severe weather impacts.