Hi! I am an environmental physicist, which means that I apply physics to better understand, predict, and attribute changes to our environment, particularly the atmosphere, lakes, and broader climate system. I am a proud alum of Ithaca College! I double majored in chemistry and physics, and benefitted greatly from the student-centered approach both departments used in classroom and research experiences. Prior to coming back to Ithaca College, I earned my PhD in applied physics (specializing in atmospheric chemistry and climate dynamics) from Harvard University and completed a postdoctoral research experience at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. I was also a professor of environmental science in the Center for Earth and Environmental Science at SUNY Plattsburgh for eight years.
At Ithaca College, I teach a mix of courses that include classes for our physics majors and other popular classes used by students from around campus to complete their ICC (general education) requirements. In the last few years, I have taught PHYS 10100 (algebra-based Intro to Physics); PHYS 32300 (intermediate level electricity and magnetism) and PHYS 26000 (intermediate physics laboratory). I have also been fortunate to be able to regularly teach students about the science and politics of climate change in my class PHYS/ENVS 14700 - Time to Act!
I enjoy undertaking research projects with students, which often includes students in their first year at IC. I am proud to have had many students participate in peer-reviewed journal articles and present at regional or national scientific conferences.
I am broadly interested in the dynamics of environmental systems, particularly the atmosphere, the broader climate system, and, more recently, lakes. Current projects include (1) monitoring methane in New York State to better understand sources and impacts on air quality (supported by NYSERDA and New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets in collaboration with colleagues at the University of Rochester, the University at Albany, Columbia University, and Cornell University); and (2) studying the impact of weather and climate on Lake Champlain water quality (supported by Great Lakes Fisheries Commission and in collaboration with SUNY Plattsburgh). Funding support for previous research projects has come from the Environmental Protection Agency, the State University of New York, and the National Science Foundation.
You can find much more information on my personal website.