PhD in Atmospheric Sciences in Ithaca United States | Cornell University

Atmospheric science focuses on examining atmospheric processes, spanning from the planetary boundary layer to the ionosphere. This field applies to weather and climate analysis and forecasting. Our atmospheric science graduate program is compact yet high-caliber, with faculty mentoring a limited number of students to ensure close advisor-student collaboration. Students benefit from personalized guidance while enjoying the resources of a major research university and Ithaca's scenic, vibrant setting. We encourage applicants from diverse academic backgrounds—including physics, chemistry, engineering, geological sciences, and mathematics—as these disciplines provide strong foundations for advanced atmospheric science studies. However, all applicants should possess undergraduate-level proficiency in physics and mathematics.

Our atmospheric science graduate program guarantees full financial support—covering tuition, stipend, and health insurance—for all admitted students. Due to funding constraints tied to research alignment or grant availability, we occasionally cannot accept highly qualified applicants whose interests don't match our current projects. Funding options include graduate research assistantships from the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences or faculty grants, along with teaching assistantships. We strongly advise both prospective and current students to seek additional funding through fellowships and scholarships from organizations like NSF, NASA, AMS, and NOAA.