Incoming students have the opportunity to pursue degrees with emphasis in either atmospheric science or atmospheric and environmental chemistry . The research program in atmospheric science strives to understand the polar atmosphere, investigating both its natural state and anthropogenic changes to its state. The chemistry of the polar regions is unique due to extreme temperature and light variations. We investigate the natural chemical cycles of the atmosphere as well as anthropogenic influences on the chemistry. Atmospheric Radiation .
Radiation is a prime driving force of the atmosphere.
We investigate both the static and dynamic impacts of atmospheric radiation. Climate and Climate Change . The history of Arctic climate, including the problems with the instrumental record, is important if we are to interpret records of apparent change in climate. Arctic clouds and aerosols are unique because of the extreme environment in which they exist. Mesoscale Meteorology .