This research and service organization focuses  on Alaska and polar regions climatology; we archive climatological data for Alaska.

The mission of the Lidar Research Laboratory (LRL) is to support laser radar (lidar) and associated studies of the Arctic atmosphere.

After recently joining the Atmospheric Sciences Group of the University of Alaska Fairbanks, Professor Kenneth Sassen is in the process of establishing a major new research facility at the Geophysical Institute.

Cloud & Aerosol Physics Subgroup studies cloud/aerosol physics and cloud dynamics. The subgroup works on Arctic problems like arctic haze, arctic stratus clouds, and global problems like cloud-radiation feedbacks. For more information on research opportunities in this group, contact one of the faculty listed below.

The Atmospheric Chemistry Subgroup investigates high-latitude chemical reactivity through a combination of field and laboratory studies. The subgroup works closely with the aerosol, radiation, meteorology groups in these studies. The listings below describe some current research foci. Follow the links to investigate these projects further. Interested students should investigate our excellent research and education opportunities.

There are currently several sections within the Atmospheric Research group.

There are currently several sections within the Atmospheric Research group.

Faculty and students have access to world-class research facilities, including the Arctic Region Supercomputing Center, Poker Flat Research Range and several observational networks. Students gain international exposure conducting research in cooperation with scientists from all over the world.

The students in the Atmospheric Sciences research group at the Geophysical institute captured it well when they chose the phrase, "Studying at one of the few places where homogeneous nucleation occurs naturally." The Atmospheric Science's group is composed of scientists who share a common interest in using the unique vantage point of the polar regions to study the physical, chemical, and dynamical processes of the atmosphere. We consider ourselves lucky to be working in Alaska during a time of unprecedented concern about the climate of the Arctic and the wider world.