Time series analysis, with environmental applications

The proposed research program is for the development of methods for the analysis of time series, and applications to the analysis of sea level fluctuations and the concentrations of ground level pollutants. Global sea level is rising at the rate of about 30 cm/century, which leads to concerns about flooding of coastal regions. In several locations tidal amplitude is also increasing, which exacerbates flood risk. The goal of this work is to better understand the causes of long term tidal change, including the roles played by increases in global mean sea level and changing meteorology. Increased concentrations of air pollutants are associated with detrimental effects on human health, ecosystem diversity, and general quality of life. This work will examine levels of several pollutants, including ozone, sulphur dioxide, NOx and particulates, and mediating meteorological variables such as temperature, wind fields and humidity, with the goal of better understanding the mechanisms of production, loss and transport of pollutants, and associated health and environmental impacts.