This project focuses on investigating the critical role of atmospheric aerosols in shaping Earth’s energy budget, particularly their direct impact through sunlight scattering and absorption, as well as their indirect influence as cloud condensation nuclei (CCN). Addressing these factors is crucial, as aerosol-induced effects constitute major uncertainties in climate forcing. The overarching scientific goal is to develop, evaluate, and apply measurement-trained models for the precise calculation of Aerosol Liquid Water Content (ALWC) and CCN spectra specifically at the background Southeast U.S. APP site. This initiative aims to address the current gaps in understanding aerosol impacts on climate and to establish a foundation for extending these models to other regions. By enhancing our comprehension of aerosol-cloud interactions in this region, our research has the potential to contribute significantly to climate science. The long-term objective is to expand these measurement-trained models to encompass broader geographical contexts, ultimately advancing our ability to predict and mitigate the impacts of aerosols on Earth’s climate.
Collaborative Research: RUI: Applying Measurements, Models, and Machine Learning to Improve Parameterization of Aerosol Water Uptake and Cloud Condensation Nuclei in the Background Southeastern U.S
Facility | Multi-institutional | Research Working Group | Student Research
May 1, 2023
– April 30, 2026
Project Details
Funded by National Science Foundation (NSF)
(External Funding)
Administrative Unit
Research Institute for Environment, Energy, and Economics (RIEEE)
Research Theme
More Projects and Programs
National Science Foundation (NSF)
This project establishes a climate-health internship for an Appalachian State graduate student. The internship aims to provide hands-on research experiences, mentorship, and professional development opportunities beyond the academic setting. The…
Appalachian Regional Commission via Mountain BizWorks
The scope of work for Accelerating Outdoors: Outdoor Recreation Powering Economic Recovery & Growth Across Western North Carolina grant primarily focuses on establishing and implementing an outdoor investment framework that…
National Geographic Society (NGS)
To advance our scientific comprehension of spatiotemporal precipitation patterns in the region, the Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Abad del Cusco (UNSAAC), in collaboration with National Geographic Explorers Dr. Baker…