Dr. Done’s academic training and research provide a skillset that combines expertise in fundamental Earth system science and understanding of climate risk management practice.

Since joining NSF NCAR in 2004 Dr. Done has built an international reputation for providing fundamental physical insights that advance our understanding and are applied widely in risk management. He integrates a hierarchy of models with observations and theory to tell cohesive stories that explain historical events and project their future behavior. Dr. Done has made major contributions in extreme event modeling within the global dynamical context (primarily hurricanes) and in advancing methods to connect fundamental science with risk management. Applications include water resources, building codes, insurance, defense, and human health.

Dr. Done serves as Section Head within the Mesoscale & Microscale Meteorology Laboratory, leading a team that advances, implements, and shares interdisciplinary research methods. In recognition of his leadership Dr. Done testified in a hearing on understanding extreme weather before the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology in 2019.