David J. Neelin

David J. Neelin is a Professor in the Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). With a background in physics and climate science, his research focuses on climate dynamics, coupled ocean-atmosphere modeling, and geophysical fluid dynamics, particularly in relation to El Niño, precipitation extremes, and heatwaves.

• Education: B.S. and M.S. from the University of Toronto; Ph.D. from Princeton University

His work integrates climate modeling, observational data, and theoretical frameworks to understand tropical meteorology, cloud feedback mechanisms, and regional climate impacts such as atmospheric rivers and nocturnal convection. Recent publications emphasize machine learning applications in weather prediction, climate sensitivity, and extreme event dynamics.

Scientific Awards:

• Pritzker Emerging Environmental Genius Award

Neelin's projects include studies on the Tibetan Plateau's influence on global climate, tropical convective systems, and water vapor feedbacks. His research has significant implications for climate policy and risk mitigation in regions like California and the Great Barrier Reef.