Chun-Ying Chao, Current Ph.D. Candidate in Environmental Engineering at Rice University, Seeking Postdoctoral Position
CHUN-YING CHAO, Rice University
Abstract Number: 627
Working Group: Meet the Job Seekers
Abstract
My research focuses on in-situ measurements and data analysis related to aerosol processes and secondary organic aerosol (SOA) formation. In my thesis, I performed a comprehensive analysis of: (1) the SOA formation rate under various rain intensities and processes; (2) the influence of urban location and environmental factors on in-situ SOA formation rate; and (3) the impact of sea breeze on aerosol levels and source apportionments using historical monitoring measurements of particulate matter in Houston.
In my Ph.D. study, I used an Aerodyne high-resolution time-of-flight aerosol mass spectrometer (HR-ToF-AMS) to measure aerosol during the TRACER-MAP and TRACER-AQ2 field campaigns in Houston. In addition to field campaign experience, I used Igor Pro, R, and positive matrix factorization (PMF) to process highly resolved spatiotemporal data and to employ source apportionment. I also analyzed long-term PM composition data in Houston using EPA-PMF. In my master’s study, I applied low-cost PM sensor data to improve pollution mapping products.
Based on these experiences, I hope to explore SOA chemistry using mass spectrometric techniques such as VOCUS, ToF-CIMS, and PTR-MS that span gas and particle phases. I am interested in these topics to advance scientific knowledge in the hopes of improving air quality across the globe.
My ultimate goal is to work as a professor in the USA. Therefore, I want to find a research group that can continue to expand my horizons. I am seeking a postdoctoral position in a research group focusing on atmospheric chemistry, field campaigns, or source apportionment. Currently, I am a Ph.D. candidate at Rice University working with Dr. Rob Griffin, and I expect to graduate in December 2024. Before joining Rice University, I completed my master’s degree at Washington University in St. Louis under the guidance of Dr. Pratim Biswas.