Robert Mc Graw

Robert Mc Graw is a Senior Chemist and Group Leader of Aerosol Processes & Observing Systems at Brookhaven National Laboratory's Environmental Science and Technologies Department. He also holds an adjunct professorship in the Department of Chemical Engineering at Yale University, where he contributes to academic research and education in atmospheric sciences.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry, University of Chicago
• M.S. in Chemistry, University of Chicago
• B.S. in Chemistry, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA

Research Interests:

Dr. Mc Graw's research spans several critical areas in atmospheric and aerosol sciences. His foundational work in nucleation theory explores homogeneous and heterogeneous nucleation of supercooled vapors, particularly as mechanisms for gas-to-particle conversion. He has significantly advanced the understanding of aerosol dynamics through development of the quadrature method of moments (QMOM) for simulating atmospheric aerosol processes. His expertise extends to cloud microphysics, investigating the microphysical processes governing drizzle formation in marine and continental clouds. Additionally, he applies statistical physics and thermodynamics to study phase transformations, deliquescence, and efflorescence phenomena in atmospheric particles.

His current research emphasizes climate science programs under DOE ARM (Atmospheric Radiation Measurement) and ASR (Atmospheric System Research), focusing on aerosol-cloud interactions and their implications for climate forcing. His work integrates theoretical developments with practical applications, such as the MATRIX aerosol module implemented in NASA/GISS climate models.

Scientific Contributions and Awards:

While specific awards are not listed, Dr. Mc Graw's major achievements include pioneering the quadrature method of moments for aerosol simulation, conducting the first rigorous kinetic study of binary nucleation in sulfuric acid-water systems, and investigating fluctuation effects in nucleation theory. His leadership as Principal Investigator on NASA, DOE/EERE, and NNSA programs underscores his significant contributions to atmospheric science.

Leadership and Programs:

• Principal Investigator, NASA programs on atmospheric aerosols and clouds
• PI, DOE/EERE Diesel Engine Emissions Reduction (DEER) program
• Division Head, Atmospheric Sciences Division, BNL
• Group Leader, Aerosol Processes & Observing Systems, BNL

Laboratory Affiliations:

Dr. Mc Graw is based at Brookhaven National Laboratory's Environmental Science and Technologies Department, where he leads the Aerosol Processes & Observing Systems group. His laboratory focuses on advanced aerosol instrumentation, field observations, and theoretical modeling to understand atmospheric processes. The group collaborates extensively with national and international research programs, contributing to major field campaigns and climate model development.