Katherine Klink

Katherine Klink is an Associate Professor in the Department of Geography, Environment & Society at the University of Minnesota. Her research focuses on urban climatology, wind energy systems, and climate variability. She holds a B.S. in Atmospheric Science from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (1982), followed by an M.S. (1987) and Ph.D. in Climatology from the University of Delaware (1992). Her career has centered on understanding wind patterns, urban climate dynamics, and agricultural-climate interactions.

Dr. Klink’s research emphasizes practical applications such as urban heat mitigation via green infrastructure and optimizing wind energy systems. She has explored extreme wind events, climate impacts on crop productivity (e.g., barley and oats), and the relationship between snow cover and urban heat islands in Minneapolis. Her work bridges climatology with societal needs, including renewable energy potential and climate adaptation strategies.

Her publications span over three decades, addressing topics from synoptic-scale wind drivers to distributed wind energy systems in North Dakota. While no formal awards or grants are listed, her extensive academic output reflects sustained contributions to environmental and climatic studies. Courses and professional activities remain closed sections in her profile.