Paul Wennberg

Paul Wennberg is the R. Stanton Avery Professor of Atmospheric Chemistry and Environmental Science and Engineering at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). He specializes in studying air quality, wildfire impacts, and pollutant dynamics. His research focuses on analyzing particulate matter and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released during structural fires, such as the Eaton, Marshall, and Camp fires. He collaborates with institutions like the University of Colorado Boulder and advises PhD students like Haroula Baliaka. His work informs post-fire cleanup strategies, emphasizing activated carbon filters and ventilation to mitigate indoor pollution. Instruments at Caltech’s Breathe.Caltech.edu monitor local air quality. His guidance integrates interdisciplinary approaches to address environmental challenges.

Key research areas include wildfire emissions, urban air quality, and the chemical composition of smoke. He has contributed to studies on residual fire impacts and indoor air purification methods. His recent articles analyze fire-induced particulate matter and VOCs, alongside evaluating air cleaner efficacy. Future efforts aim to advance understanding of fire chemistry and public health interventions.