Tropical Systems Group

Kelly M. Núñez Ocasio, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor

Department of Atmospheric Sciences

Texas A&M University

¡Bienvenidos!

We study tropical systems across convective to synoptic scales using a multiscale, process-based approach. Our research focuses on identifying and analyzing the physical processes involved in the evolution of mesoscale convective systems, easterly waves, and the genesis of tropical cyclones. We also examine the weather and climate of Africa and their relationship to tropical variability in the Atlantic.

We are particularly interested in how convective processes and moisture contribute to the genesis of tropical cyclone seeds, and how these interactions may evolve in a changing climate. To pursue these scientific questions, we use both weather and climate models, as well as observations. We are also committed to open science practices and are deeply motivated by the importance of science communication in broadening the reach and impact of our work.

Recent News

August 2025:
- Dr. Kwesi Quagraine has joined our Tropical Systems Group as a Postdoctoral Researcher. Welcome, Kwesi!
- Stephanie Ortiz Rosario, recent graduate of the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez, will be joining our Tropical Systems Group as a Ph.D. student in Fall 2025. Welcome, Stephanie!
June-July 2025:
- Antonio Ruiz Núñez successfully completed his summer project with the NSF NCAR SOARS Program in collaboration with Erin Dougherty and our Tropical Systems Group. He wrapped up with several excellent presentations and will continue working with us and Erin on the research paper while pursuing his next career step. We’re very proud of you, Antonio!
- Kelly Núñez Ocasio continued her support for the Mesoamerica Affinity Group (MAAG) by producing for the group the first MPAS hindcast of Hurricane Maria and collaborating with NCAR’s archive to make the dataset publicly available [link]. She has helped expand MAAG by engaging Central American and Caribbean groups, fostering collaborations, and her MPAS modeling expertise. If you’re interested in joining this effort, please email Kelly!
- Kelly Núñez Ocasio was featured and interviewed this summer across various national and international media platforms to discuss the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season and the devastating July 2025 floods in Kerr County, Texas. Her appearances included:
  - - Telemundo; USA Today; FOX Weather; Radio Bilingüe; Radio Ciudad Buenos Aires

You can find more group news here.

Dr. Nunez Ocasio FOX Weather.mp4

Interview with FOX Weather about 2025 Eastern Pacific & Atlantic hurricane season

🚨Graduate Student and Postdoc Opportunities🚨

If you are interested in a position, please email me at knunez.ocasio@tamu.edu with your CV and research interests. Prospective students may apply through the TAMU ATMO department.

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