Research Program

My research is in the broad area of air quality systems engineering with emphasis on the investigation of the chemical and physical characteristics of atmospheric aerosols.  I am interested in investigating secondary organic aerosol (SOA) formation, source characterization of combustion derived particulate emissions, and field measurements of particulate in the atmosphere.  Atmospheric aerosols are of significant interest as they negatively impact human health, degrade visibility, and impact the Earth’s global radiation balance.

Our research group has adopted the following multidimensional approach towards acquiring a greater understanding of atmospheric fine particulate matter.

1. Environmental chamber simulations to improve estimation and prediction of secondary aerosol formation
2. Emission source characterization for a number of important, but undefined, sources.
3. Field studies to estimate the contributions of various sources to air quality in an area.
4. Identification of pathways for adverse health impacts from fine particulate matter .

All of these dimensions include both a laboratory and a field component. The advantage of a combined research program is that it allows us to address these important scientific and societal issues in a holistic manner.