Current Research

Urban new particle formation 

Our urban field study in Houston, Texas, focuses on the comprehensive chemical analysis of gas-phase nucleation precursors and aerosol-phase chemical composition to understand the formation and growth processes of urban ultrafine particles. 

Laboratory Studies of New Particle Formation

Our goal is to understand the effects of isoprene on biogenic new particle formation under conditions relevant to the mixed deciduous forests in the United States, from the controlled flow tube experiments with a series of mass spectrometers and aerosol instruments.

Chemical Evolution of WildFIRE SMOKE emitted air pollutants

In collaboration with Dr. Rawad Saleh at University of Georgia, we study chemical evolution of air toxicants emitted from prescribed wildfires and smokes.

Satellite Data Analysis of air pollutants

In collaboration with Dr. Can Li at NASA GSFC, we compare satellite observation data of air pollutants retrieved from polar-orbiting satellites (e.g., TROPOMI) and geostationary platforms (e.g., GEMS and TEMPO) with in-situ measurements. 

emerging air pollutants

Recent studies show a series of newly emerging air pollutants in urban and indoor environments. We use high-resolution mass spectrometers to analyze their chemical composition and detailed molecular structures.

Amines and Ammonia Detection

We have developed a CIMS that can measure ambient amines and ammonia at the ppt or sub-ppt level with a fast time response (less than 1 minute). Currently, this is one of the three instruments in the world that have such capabilities.