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At the University of Chicago, studies of the atmosphere, oceans, ice systems, and climate have a distinguished legacy. Carl-Gustaf Rossby, honored as Time's 1956 Man of the Year and widely regarded as the pivotal figure in shaping contemporary meteorology, led the department during the 1940s. Other notable figures include Ted Fujita, whose name graces the tornado rating system. While TC Chamberlin, the department's inaugural chair, is primarily known as a geologist, his pioneering contributions to glacier science were significant.
Today's investigations focus on core challenges in ice sheet dynamics (MacAyeal), fluid movements in Earth systems (Jansen, Nakamura, and Shaw), climate patterns and transformations (Abbot, Archer, Jansen, Moyer, and Shaw), and atmospheric chemical processes (Moyer). Our approaches span theoretical calculations, advanced computer modeling, satellite observations, and controlled lab studies. We operate as a cohesive unit, gathering weekly for dynamic journal discussions and holding summer seminars where students and researchers present their work.