My research involves understanding the formation and behavior of tiny particles known as aerosols within the atmosphere by conducting field and chamber experiments. I measure aerosol physical, chemical, and optical properties using various techniques such as mass spectrometry, light attenuation, etc. The scattering and absorption of sunlight by atmospheric aerosols controls Earth's radiative budget. My research focuses on understanding the interaction of various aerosol species with light causing warming or cooling of the atmosphere. I also study the formation of aerosols from biogenic precursors in a process know as gas-to-particle conversion using chamber studies. Currently, I am focusing on combustion aerosols to understand their impact on air pollution and to develop better fuels. Apart from experimental studies, I use various modeling tools to identify the mixing state, new particle formation, and radiative forcing of aerosols.

combustion chemistry Aerosol physical optical and chemical properties Atmospheric chemistry Air pollution Climate change Evolution of organic aerosols Volatile organic carbon