Robert H. Weisberg

Dr. Robert H. Weisberg is the Distinguished University Professor of Physical Oceanography at the University of South Florida’s College of Marine Science, leading the Ocean Circulation Group. His research focuses on ocean circulation, ocean-atmosphere interactions, and their societal impacts, particularly on the West Florida Continental Shelf (WFS). He develops integrated observational and numerical modeling systems to study processes affecting water properties, harmful algal blooms, fisheries, and hurricane storm surge. His work employs moorings, HF-radar, gliders, satellite data, and models like ROMS and FVCOM.

Key projects include the C-IMAGE Center (2011–2018), investigating Gulf of Mexico ecosystem dynamics post-Deepwater Horizon. His group’s research addresses coastal resilience, environmental hazards, and climate change impacts. Observational tools include real-time meteorology sensors, profilers, and drifters. Applications span disaster preparedness, fisheries management, and ecological conservation.

His publications emphasize WFS circulation dynamics, Loop Current interactions, and model advancements. Research highlights include hurricane-induced circulation changes, red tide trajectory forecasting, and climate-driven SST trends. The Tampa Bay Coastal Ocean Model (TBCOM) supports environmental management through nowcasting and forecasting.

Dr. Weisberg collaborates widely, integrating autonomous vehicles and adaptive sampling to enhance Gulf of Mexico forecasts. His work bridges fundamental science and societal needs, with applications in coastal policy and disaster response.