Chris Westbrook

Dr. Chris Westbrook is a Professor in the Department of Meteorology at the University of Reading's Faculty of Science. His academic career spans over 15 years with continuous research contributions in atmospheric science, particularly focused on cloud microphysics and ice crystal properties.

• University of Reading, Department of Meteorology (current primary affiliation)
• Collaborator with National Center for Atmospheric Science (NCAS)
• Research partner with European institutions including ETH Zurich
• Collaborator with US institutions including NASA and NOAA

Dr. Westbrook's research centers on ice crystal microphysics, atmospheric electricity, and radar meteorology. His work bridges laboratory experiments, field observations, and computational modeling to understand fundamental processes in cloud physics. He has made significant contributions to characterizing ice particle fall dynamics, microwave scattering properties, and the relationship between atmospheric electricity and fog formation. His research has practical applications in improving weather radar interpretation and numerical weather prediction models.

His publication record shows a consistent focus on advancing methodologies for studying ice particles and cloud processes. The research trends reveal increasing sophistication in both experimental techniques (like 3D-printed analogues and advanced radar systems) and computational approaches (including boundary element methods and fluid dynamics simulations). His work spans fundamental cloud physics, remote sensing applications, and atmospheric electricity phenomena.

• Developed the TRAIL methodology for studying ice particle aerodynamics
• Pioneered use of 3D-printed ice crystal analogues for fall motion studies
• Advanced microwave scattering models for ice aggregates
• Contributed to understanding atmospheric electricity-fog relationships

Dr. Westbrook maintains an active research program with numerous ongoing collaborations across multiple institutions. His work is supported by grants from UK research councils, European initiatives, and partnerships with meteorological agencies. He supervises PhD students and postdoctoral researchers focused on cloud microphysics and remote sensing. His research group employs a combination of laboratory experiments, field campaigns, and computational modeling to advance understanding of ice particle properties and their atmospheric impacts.

His laboratory work focuses on ice particle characterization using innovative experimental setups including wind tunnels with 3D-printed analogues, while his field work utilizes advanced radar systems and atmospheric electricity measurements. The research group maintains strong connections with operational meteorological services to ensure practical applications of their findings.