Dr. Otto's major research interests are in space plasma theory and simulation. His research interests include the linear and nonlinear dynamics of macroscopic current carrying plasma systems with applications in the field of solar wind-magnetosphere interaction, magnetotail dynamics, and the formation and evolution of discrete auroral structures. In 1992, Dr. Otto joined the Geophysical Institute where his current work addresses the three-dimensional evolution of the plasma and the magnetic flux transport at the magnetospheric boundaries, the corresponding magnetosphere-ionosphere coupling, and the formation of current filaments and thin discrete auroral arc structures.