Kimberly Prather

ATOFMS

CAICE IMPACTS 2014

Kimberly Prather is a distinguished atmospheric chemist and professor known for her pioneering research in the fields of aerosol chemistry, cloud formation, and their impacts on climate change. She holds a joint appointment at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography and the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD). Prather's work has significantly advanced the understanding of how aerosols influence the Earth's climate, particularly in relation to cloud formation and the precipitation process.

Early Life and Education

Kimberly Prather's journey into atmospheric chemistry began with her undergraduate studies in chemistry at the University of California, Riverside, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree. She then pursued graduate studies at the University of California, Berkeley, obtaining her Ph.D. in Chemistry. Her doctoral research focused on atmospheric aerosols and their chemical and physical properties.

Career and Research

After completing her Ph.D., Prather embarked on a career that would see her become one of the leading figures in atmospheric chemistry. She has conducted groundbreaking research on the sources and composition of atmospheric aerosols and their role in cloud nucleation and climate change. Prather's work has utilized advanced analytical techniques, including the development of the Aerosol Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometer (ATOFMS), which has allowed for real-time analysis of aerosol particles.

Prather's research has highlighted the complex interactions between aerosols and clouds, demonstrating how aerosols from both natural and anthropogenic sources can influence cloud properties and, by extension, global climate patterns. Her studies have contributed to a better understanding of the mechanisms driving precipitation, the hydrological cycle, and the impact of human activities on atmospheric processes.

Awards and Honors

Throughout her career, Kimberly Prather has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of her contributions to science and her impact on the field of atmospheric chemistry. These accolades include prestigious fellowships and awards from scientific societies and institutions, underscoring her role as a leading researcher and educator in her field.

Impact and Legacy

Kimberly Prather's work has had a profound impact on the field of atmospheric chemistry, influencing environmental policy and contributing to the global conversation on climate change. Her research has provided critical insights into the role of aerosols in the climate system, informing strategies to mitigate the effects of global warming. Prather is also committed to education and outreach, mentoring the next generation of scientists and engaging with the public to raise awareness about environmental issues.

Selected Publications

Kimberly Prather has authored and co-authored numerous scientific papers and articles in prestigious journals, detailing her research findings and contributing to the body of knowledge in atmospheric chemistry. Her publications cover a wide range of topics, from aerosol analysis techniques to the implications of aerosol-cloud interactions for climate change.

See Also

• Atmospheric Chemistry
• Climate Change
• Aerosol
• Cloud Formation
• Scripps Institution of Oceanography
• University of California, San Diego