My research centers on the role of atmospheric convection in the earth system across a broad range of timescale from daily to multi century. Convection is a fundamental contributor to the way organized modes of variability influence the large-scale circulation and the predictability of the earth system. Central to my work has been how earth system models are able to represent these critical coupled relationships in the presence of a very complex modeling system. This includes advancing our understanding of important modes of variability such as the diurnal cycle of precipitation, tropical propagating modes of variability including the Madden Julian Oscillation and the El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO). Improved skill in simulating these modes lies at the heart of reliable CESM applications for prediction, predictability and climate applications critical for decision makers across society.

During more than 20 years at NCAR I have also been a major contributor to the atmospheric processes development of the Community Earth System Model (CESM), a community driven capability designed for earth system science. CESM contributes to the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP) from which a broad array of fundamental research is carried at all levels of expertise from undergraduates to senior researcher both for educational and real-world application. On the largest impact scale we see CESM being used for past, present and future climate scenarios as part of the assessment reports (most recently AR6) for the Intergovernmental Panel Climate Change (IPCC).

Beyond core research activities I have also mentored many undergraduates, graduates and early career scientists. I have enjoyed organizing and leading two previous Advanced Study Program (ASP) colloquia on the The Interaction of Precipitation with Orography (2017) and The Atmospheric Boundary Layer: Integrating Complexity Across Disciplines (2022).