Eugene E. Clothiaux

Eugene E. Clothiaux serves as Professor of Meteorology and Atmospheric Science and Associate Head for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Department of Meteorology and Atmospheric Science at Pennsylvania State University's College of Earth and Mineral Sciences. With over three decades of academic experience, he has established himself as a leading researcher in atmospheric radiation and cloud physics.

Dr. Clothiaux earned his B.Sc. in physics from Auburn University in 1983, followed by M.S. (1986) and Ph.D. (1990) degrees in physics from Brown University. His academic journey included a Department of Energy Global Change Distinguished Post-Doctoral Fellowship in 1991, which launched his transition into atmospheric sciences. His educational background in physics provides the foundation for his rigorous approach to atmospheric radiation problems.

His research program focuses on atmospheric radiative transfer, ground- and satellite-based observations of clouds, cloud parameterizations in numerical models, and data assimilation techniques. Dr. Clothiaux has participated in numerous major field campaigns including the First International Satellite Cloud Climatology Project, Atlantic Stratocumulus Transition Experiment, Maritime Continent Thunderstorm Experiment, and multiple Department of Energy Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Program initiatives. His current work emphasizes liquid and ice microphysics retrieval using measurements from the Azores and North Slope of Alaska.

Analysis of his publication record reveals a consistent trajectory of innovation in cloud remote sensing and radiative transfer. His research spans fundamental cloud physics investigations to practical applications in weather prediction systems, with recent emphasis on satellite data assimilation for improving tropical cyclone forecasts and Arctic climate modeling.

• Department of Energy Global Change Distinguished Post-Doctoral Fellowship

Dr. Clothiaux has made significant educational contributions through his co-authorship of the textbook "Fundamentals of Atmospheric Radiation" with Craig Bohren, which has become a standard reference in the field. He has mentored numerous graduate students and served as a lecturer for the European Research Course on Atmospheres in Grenoble, France. His research has been supported by multiple grants from the Department of Energy, NASA, and other agencies enabling participation in major observational programs and development of novel methodologies.

Currently leading research on satellite data assimilation and Arctic cloud processes, Dr. Clothiaux continues to bridge fundamental atmospheric physics with operational weather prediction needs. His work on cloud-radiation interactions remains critical for improving both short-term weather forecasts and long-term climate projections.