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Jose D. Fuentes
- Professor of Meteorology
University Park, PA 16802
Education:
- Ph.D.--University of Guelph (1992)
Research Specialties:
Biography:
Professional Societies
Research Interests
My research concerns the understanding of how physical and biological
constraints influence the rates of energy and mass exchange between the
biosphere (e.g., forests) and the atmospheric layer adjacent to the
ground surface. This research is necessary to understand the impacts of
atmospheric composition changes on both the Earth’s climate system and
air quality in response to increases of transport of materials from the
biosphere to the atmosphere and vice versa. My research involves
several facets ranging from investigations in the laboratory where I
develop and test measurement systems before their field deployment, to
research in the field where the complex interactions between
terrestrial surfaces and the overlying atmosphere are studied employing
state-of-the-science observing systems. As a micrometeorologist, I
study the layer of the atmosphere where the influence of turbulence and
radiative transfer are the greatest. Over the years I have
effectively collaborated with atmospheric chemists and ecologists on
field projects that have taken me to places such as the high Arctic,
Brazil, several places in Africa, and many places in North
America. Additional details about my core research areas are listed under Research Projects.
Research Projects
In recent times, the atmosphere has experienced substantial changes in its composition. These changes have been manifested in the rapid, secular increases of the so-called greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, and ground-level ozone –all of which can dramatically alter the energy balance of our planet. My research then seeks to understand how physical and biological constraints influence the rate of energy and mass exchange between the biosphere (e.g., forests) and the atmospheric layer adjacent to the ground surface. Within this general theme, I have accomplished laboratory and field investigations to increase our knowledge concerning the processes contributing to ozone formation and destruction close to the ground, hydrocarbon emission and processing inside and above plant canopies, and carbon sequestration by deciduous forests. The central goal of all this research is to integrate field research findings in a theoretical framework (i.e., numerical models) to develop predictive capabilities to address societal questions related to regional and global air quality and climate change. The following links provide brief descriptions of my field research projects.
- West Africa
- New Mexico
Publications
A full list of publications can be found by visiting: http://www.met.psu.edu/people/juf15/publications-list
