Our Work
This page showcases our ongoing and past research projects focused on the Antarctic Peninsula region, with particular emphasis on the role of atmospheric rivers (ARs), cloud and precipitation processes, and the biological and chemical composition of polar precipitation. Our work combines atmospheric observations, microbiological analyses, and model evaluation to improve our understanding of the Antarctic climate system in a warming world. Below you’ll find brief summaries of each project, including their objectives, funding sources, and scientific contributions.
MAPS
Measurements and modeling of the atmospheric and oceanic boundary layers at the northern Antarctic Peninsula during the Year of Polar Prediction Special observing periods
MAPS investigates the atmospheric and oceanic boundary layers at the northern Antarctic Peninsula during Atmospheric River (AR) events. Funded by FCT, it uses radiosonde and radar data to evaluate precipitation and improve climate model performance. The project also explores air-sea interactions, tests a high-resolution wind-wave model, and assesses the reliability of reanalysis products. MAPS supports early-career training by engaging young scientists in Antarctic measurements and modeling to better understand climate processes in this rapidly changing region.
APMAR/APMAR2/APMAR25
​Antarctic Peninsula surface Mass and energy balance: the role of Atmospheric Rivers and
microworlds
APMAR-2025, funded by FCT under PROPOLAR, studies the mass and energy balance of the Antarctic Peninsula with a focus on Atmospheric Rivers (ARs). It integrates radiosonde launches, radar/lidar data, and snow sample analysis to explore thermodynamics, precipitation processes, and the microbiological, isotopic, and chemical makeup of snowfall. The project assesses model performance (e.g., Polar-WRF) and investigates the role of airborne microorganisms and microplastics during ARs. APMAR2 and earlier phases developed these methods across successive summer campaigns.
MICROANT
MICROANT examines precipitation microbiology in the northern Antarctic Peninsula. Funded by FCT, it links microbial diversity to local cloud and precipitation properties through in-situ and remote sensing observations. The project traces aerosol and moisture origins using backtrajectories and stable isotopes, revealing connections between AR events and airborne microbiota. It fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and early-career training while emphasizing the importance of biological data in understanding climate dynamics. MICROANT also promotes public engagement through outreach about Antarctica’s changing environment.
Microphysical and microbiological signatures of precipitation in Antarctica: role of atmospheric rivers and local sources in a warmer climate
​Dataset Development & Stewardship Projects
Under SCAR’s AntClimNow program, this fellowship develops Merged Observation Data Formats (MODFs) for King Sejong Station. By integrating radiosonde, radar, and meteorological datasets, the project enhances access to reliable, standardized Antarctic data. These efforts support improved analysis of short-term climate variability and trends. The MODFs initiative contributes to broader AntClimNow goals by strengthening data coordination and availability, ultimately improving climate model validation and near-term forecasting for the Antarctic Peninsula region.
