WEST LAFAYETTE, INDIANA — The Shepson group is involved in fundamental studies of the chemistry of the Earth’s atmosphere, and specifically, photochemistry that occurs in the lowest 10-15 km, i.e. the troposphere. Most of our research questions ultimately relate to understanding factors that influence tropospheric ozone, a toxic but also essential component of the lower atmosphere. Research activities involve a wide and interconnected array of laboratory experiments, analytical methods development, field measurement campaigns, and supporting computer modeling activities. We actively develop novelanalytical methods development for rapid and trace level atmospheric measurements that enable quantitative atmospheric measurements. We do research in the Arctic, in the forests, on the ocean surface, and using flight platforms (planes). 

We use a Picarro analyzer for taking eddy covariance flux measurements of carbon dioxide, methane and water vapor while flying as part of our troposphere research. This is a very demanding application and Picarro worked closely with me to build a customized analyzer that fit my specifications and was suitable for my work.  The instrument has been an excellent addition to my instrumentation efforts. The research data I have been able to collect with this analyzer will contribute to a variety of articles in peer-reviewed journals.

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