The project combines studies of large-scale processes in atmospheric dynamics in three main areas: 1) Extratropical ocean/atmosphere interactions; 2) Stratosphere-troposphere dynamical coupling; and 3) Regional climate impacts of the Southern Annular Mode. Area 1) focuses on analysis and diagnosis of the relationships between large-scale atmospheric and sea-surface temperature variability in both the North Atlantic and Southern oceans. The research will exploit a range of remotely sensed and in-situ data sets, with emphasis on data with high temporal and spatial resolution. Area 2) emphasizes the insights gained from using a simple numerical model to investigate the observed coupling between the tropospheric and stratospheric circulations. Area 3) consists of a comprehensive investigation of the climate impacts of the Southern Hemisphere Annular Mode. Combined, the research aims to improve our understanding of large-scale climate variability in both hemispheres ranging from weeks to longer timescales. The research has strong broader impacts implications for weather and climate forecasting, will support a female graduate student and foster outreach/education of high school students in the science of climate change.
