Studies of the chemistry and dynamics of the upper troposphere and stratosphere

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This research program proposes to enhance knowledge on the upper-troposphere and the stratosphere. This atmospheric region located between about 6 and 60km plays roles that are essential for sustaining life on Earth. It hosts the ozone layer, protecting the Earth surface from the dangerous ultra-violet solar radiation; it controls a significant part of the tropospheric ozone budget, and in turn, of air quality; it plays an important role in climate; and influences the day-to-day weather. Our approach is to integrate in our research the different natures of these processes (dynamical, chemical and radiative), and to develop the science of its different applications of concern to society (air quality, climate and weather forecasting). Our research is based on the use and development of two core numerical models, the IGCM-FASTOC and the GEM, a low resolution climate-chemistry model adapted for long-term, global investigations, and Environment Canada's weather prediction model adapted for more detailed, high-resolution studies. It also involves the use of satellite and balloon sonde observational data. Based on our previous accomplishments, this research program proposes to develop four avenues of research: The transport of rich stratospheric air into the troposphere and its effect on tropospheric ozone budget and air quality; the numerical modelling of the stratosphere, including in particular the effect of solar variability; the capacity of current stratospheric chemical observations from satellites to improve the prediction of stratospheric winds through data assimilation, and thereby the tropospheric weather; and the fundamental aspects of the resolution dependence of stratospheric chemistry. This program proposes to engage three doctoral students and an undergraduate student per year in this research, and to provide them with a comprehensive training in some of the most challenging topics of atmospheric sciences.