Keith Beyer

Keith Beyer is a Professor of Chemistry & Biochemistry at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (UWL), holding roles such as Director of the Environmental Studies Program and former Associate Dean of the College of Science and Health. He earned his B.S. (Honors) in Chemistry from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (1989) and a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from MIT (1994). His research focuses on atmospheric aerosols, particularly deliquescence/efflorescence processes and their impacts on reaction rates in particles containing ammonium sulfate and organic acids. He has authored/co-authored multiple peer-reviewed articles in journals like ACS Earth and Space Chem and Journal of Chemical Thermodynamics, collaborating with student researchers. His work contributes to understanding climate and air quality through aerosol-phase behavior analysis.

Education:

• B.S. (Honors) Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, 1989
• Ph.D. Physical Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1994

Research Interests: Dr. Beyer investigates how soluble compounds in atmospheric aerosols (e.g., ammonium sulfate, dicarboxylic acids) interact with water to form clouds or dry particles. His experimental techniques include differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), humidity-controlled thermogravimetric analysis (H-TGA), and FTIR spectroscopy. Recent work highlights deliquescence dynamics in sodium and potassium salts of organic acids, emphasizing their role in atmospheric chemistry and climate modeling.

Advising & Collaboration: Dr. Beyer has mentored numerous undergraduate researchers, including co-authors on publications from 2016–2021. His lab’s work often involves interdisciplinary collaborations, bridging environmental science and analytical chemistry. Administrative contributions include strengthening the Environmental Studies Program and advancing STEM education initiatives.

Labs/Teams: Research conducted in UWL’s Chemistry & Biochemistry Department labs, focusing on aerosol-phase thermodynamics and solution chemistry.