Andrew Ault

Meet Andrew Ault

Research
My group and I develop spectroscopic and microscopic methods that enable study of the chemistry of atmospheric aerosols. We focus on individual particles (10-1,000 nm) containing thousands of compounds and with viscosities ranging from liquid to glassy.

Greatest achievement
Developing the first analytical methods to measure the acidity of atmospheric aerosols, both spectroscopically and colorimetrically, with more methods in the pipeline! These novel approaches are transforming our understanding of aerosol acidity, which drives haze and smog formation globally, but has traditionally been deemed too difficult measure.

Objective
My hope in the next decade is for improved predictions of aerosol impacts on global health and climate through greater understanding of aerosol chemistry. This will be enabled by rapid improvement in spectroscopy and mass spectrometry of aerosols, and my goal is to play a major role!

Prediction
Methods that enable spectroscopic analysis of complex samples under environmental conditions at spatial resolution not easily accessible in the past (<100 nm). For example, photothermal infrared spectroscopy is rapidly advancing and will enable vibrational spectroscopy of far smaller particles, materials, and biological systems than previously.

Nominator comment: “Andrew has quickly established himself as a leader in developing and applying spectroscopic methods to study atmospheric aerosols – critical for addressing global health and climate change.”