PhD 2003
Team Lead: Atmospheric Physics Research at the Numerical Weather Prediction Research Section of Environment and Climate Change Canada (government of Canada)
Ron McTaggart-Cowan
(Photo credit: Owen Egan)
1. What was your area of study (Atmospheric or Oceanic sciences)? Could you describe in a line or two your research/ area of interest while you were studying at McGill?
I did my doctoral studies in atmospheric science in the AOS department between 1998 and 2003. My research focused on the extratropical transition of tropical cyclones, with a particular emphasis on the sensitivity of such transitions to midlatitude features upstream of the recurving vortex. We quantified the impact of an upstream trough on the extratropical transition of Hurricane Earl (1998) using a numerical weather prediction model, showing that its presence was crucial for the storm's transformation.
2. Looking back, what do you value most about your studies at Atmospheric & Oceanic Sciences at McGill?
The breadth of expertise in the AOS department really benefits all students in the program. The wide variety of graduate-level courses exposes students to an extensive cross-section of the domain, better preparing them for the modern research environment and its increasing focus on the full Earth system.
3. How are you applying your degree in Atmospheric & Oceanic Sciences from McGill?
I lead the team that develops parameterizations of physical processes in the atmosphere for the Canadian numerical weather prediction model. We design and implement schemes to represent moist processes, radiation, turbulence, surface interactions, unresolved waves and basic chemistry in the atmosphere. The modelling systems that we develop underpin operational forecasting across Canada.
4. What advice would you give to someone considering graduate studies in Atmospheric or Oceanic Sciences at McGill?
I would encourage prospective students to enter the AOS department with an open mind about the specialization that they want to pursue within the domain. Their courses will expose them to a range of potential topics, many of which will augment their existing expertise and interests. Having a broad background in the field will set them on an exciting path that prepares them for the multidisciplinary research environment that awaits.
(Dec 2019