Payton Beeler, Ph.D. Student (Washington University in St. Louis), Government/Academia

PAYTON BEELER, Washington University in St. Louis

     Abstract Number: 648
     Working Group: Meet the Job Seekers

Abstract
As a scientist, I am interested in improving the understanding of small-scale aerosol processes on large-scale climate effects. My PhD research has focused on improving our understanding of shortwave absorption by internally mixed black carbon (BC). Specifically, I have quantified the effect of BC mixing state and morphology on its optical properties using discrete dipole approximation algorithms. Throughout my PhD research, I have gained skills in modeling stochastic systems such as diffusion limited aggregation and aerogel formation, single-particle optics, molecular dynamics, and density functional theory.
In the future, I hope to further expand my skills and expertise through postdoctoral training. I am interested in studying aerosol-cloud interactions, as they remain one of the largest sources of uncertainty in climate modeling. I hope to use my expertise in micro-scale modeling of aerosol processes to improve representation of aerosol-cloud feedbacks in global and regional scale models. I am also interested in using my previous research experience to improve the representation of aerosol optical properties in climate models. I am seeking postdoctoral positions at national laboratories and universities starting in the Fall of 2023. I do not have a strong preference for geographical location, and I am open to hybrid/remote arrangements.