Gregor Knorr

Dr. Gregor Knorr is a Senior Scientist at the Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI), specializing in Dynamik des Paläoklimas (Dynamics of Paleoclimates). His research focuses on reconstructing past climate systems, particularly ice sheet dynamics, ocean circulation patterns, and their interactions with atmospheric CO2 levels. He leads studies using advanced Earth system models, including coupled ice sheet-climate simulations and analyses of paleoceanographic proxies.

Key affiliations include the AWI's Climate Dynamics department and involvement in major initiatives like the DeepMIP and PlioMIP projects. His work addresses critical topics such as glacial cycles, abrupt climate change mechanisms, and the role of ocean gateways in shaping global climate. Knorr has contributed to high-impact publications in Nature Geoscience, Climate of the Past, and Geophysical Research Letters.

Methodologically, he employs transient climate simulations, ice sheet modeling, and data assimilation techniques to explore long-term climate processes. Recent projects include investigating the impact of iceberg-driven ocean circulation during Pleistocene glacials and the sensitivity of Antarctic ice sheets to CO2 fluctuations.

Knorr collaborates globally on initiatives like the MOSAiC expedition and contributes to infrastructure development for polar research. His research bridges paleoclimate reconstruction with future climate projections, emphasizing the importance of understanding Earth's climate tipping points and feedback mechanisms.