Susan Mathai, PhD in Atmospheric Sciences, and Desired Position/Area: Post Doc/Scientist in the Field Related to Optical Properties of Aerosols Emitted from Biomass Burning

SUSAN MATHAI, Michigan Technological University

     Abstract Number: 742
     Working Group: Meet the Job Seekers

Abstract
My research focuses on the physical, chemical and optical properties of biomass burning aerosols. My initial project focused on setting up cavity enhanced extinction spectrometer that can measure the extinction coefficient of aerosols for a broad range of wavelengths (400 to 550 nm). We used the instrument in the laboratory to test if liquid smoke can be used as a surrogate for organic particles emitted during biomass combustion. During my internship at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, I led three main projects. In the first project, we used electron energy loss spectroscopy to estimate the refractive index and other optical properties of tar balls transported through the free troposphere. Tar balls are formed during smoldering combustion and have wavelength dependent absorption. The second project was to study the physical and chemical properties of aerosols collected from an urban region with a high influence of biomass burning. We used Scanning electron microscopy, Scanning transmission X-ray microscopy and Transmission electron microscopy to understand the chemical composition and phase state of aerosols collected from a hazy condition. The third project focused on determining the radiative forcing of black carbon containing particles from the vertical profiles collected using the tethered balloon at the Southern Great Plains Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Site. My defense is planned for December 2023 and will be available to start a position from January 2024. I’m interested in Scientist or post doc position either in Academia or Industry with a focus on the optical properties of aerosols emitted from biomass burning. I don’t have any geographical preferences for jobs.