The Climate Modeling laboratory(CLIMLAB) is directed by Professor Fredrick Semazzi. This website highlights the research activities conducted in Climlab and other related activities and information. The laboratory has three primary foci which are briefly described below.
(i) DEVELOPMENT OF A GLOBAL ATMOSPHERIC CIRCULATION MODEL: Development of a prototype of the "Next Generation" global climate models (GCMs). This dynamical core has the following attributes: global numerical domain, scalable parallel algorithm; full nonhydrostatic dynamics; semi-implicit/semi-Lagrangian discretization; and a stretched variable-grid. Future enhancements will include development of a parallel scalable code, implementation of a blend of explicit and parameterized physics, and exploration of adaptive grid algorithms.
(ii) DEVELOPMENT OF A REGIONAL CLIMATE MODEL: Development of a fully coupled Atmosphere-Ocean-Lake-Land regional climate model for downscaling global model simulations and predictions. The model is being used over Eastern Africa and Western Africa for regional climate studies. In future it is targeted for applications over other regions of the world including the US, Asia and South America. Emprical and GCM studies are being conducted to support the regional climate modeling.
(iii) RESEARCH EXPERIENCE FOR UNDERGRADUATES PROJECT: This proto-type, proof-of-concept international project is part of an ongoing NSF funded research (ATM-0111581; PI: Dr. Fredrick Semazzi; Co-PI: Dr. Lian Xie) that provides opportunity for undergraduate students in the US and Eastern Africa to gain early experience in climate modeling and international research collaboration. The students participate in a series of computer web-based tutorials and videoconferencing sessions. Each student is expected to prepare a research report at the end of the research project assignment. As part of the training, the students enroll for a special topics 3-credit hours course (MEA-493; Undergraduate Research Experience in Climate Modeling Research). Selection of the students is based on academic merit.