William R. Young

William R. Young is a Professor of Physical Oceanography at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California, San Diego. His research focuses on fundamental fluid dynamics processes in the ocean, with particular expertise in wave phenomena and turbulent mixing.

Education:

• B.S. from Australian National University
• M.S. from Australian National University
• Ph.D. from Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Professor Young's research spans internal gravity waves, two-dimensional and geostrophic turbulence, tracer dispersion in fluid flows, and the general circulation of the ocean. His work bridges theoretical fluid dynamics with practical oceanographic applications, examining phenomena such as baroclinic eddy fluxes, negative diffusion processes, and long-range propagation of ocean waves. His recent presentations indicate continued focus on ocean energetics and the interaction of near-inertial waves with geostrophic turbulence.

At Scripps, Young teaches advanced applied mathematics courses including SIO203C/MAE294C on asymptotics and perturbation theory. He has organized multiple theory seminars from 2014-2016 covering topics such as ocean surface processes, Langmuir circulation, and form stress over topography. His office is located in the Center for Coastal Studies (Building 8650, Room 210) at Scripps Institution of Oceanography.

Professor Young maintains an extensive network of scientific collaborators across institutions including University of British Columbia, MIT, Caltech, University of Washington, and numerous international research centers. His work connects physical oceanography with broader climate science through the study of fundamental fluid processes that govern ocean circulation and mixing.