UROP Research Mentor Project Submission Portal: Submission #969

Research Mentor Information
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Primary Research Mentor Name: Marco Larrañaga
Research Mentor Preferred Pronouns: Him
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Contact Email (FSU Email if affiliated): marco.larranaga@fsu.edu
Position Title: Post Doc
FSU College (if applicable): Arts and Sciences
FSU Department or Non-FSU Organization Affiliation: Center for Ocean-Atmospheric Prediction Studies (COAPS)
Headshot (optional): https://cre.fsu.edu/system/files/webform/urop_project_proposal_portal/15471/foto_ML.jpeg

Additional Research Mentor(s)
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Overall Project Details
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Title of the Project: Modulation of Mesoscale Eddy Properties in the Gulf of Mexico Due to Surface Current Feedback to the Atmosphere
Project Keywords: Air-sea interactions, ocean, atmosphere, current feedback, coupled numerical simulations, mesoscale, Gulf of Mexico
Are you currently looking for research assistants?: Yes
Number of Research Assistants Needed : 1
Relevant Research Assistant Major(s):
Open to all majors

Project Location:: Research Foundation Building A, 2000 Levy Ave #292, Tallahassee, FL 32310
If the project location is off campus, does the research assistant(s) need to provide their own transportation?: Yes
Please select the choice that most accurately describes your expectations for the research assistant(s):: Partially Remote
Approximately how many hours a week would the research assistant(s) need to work?: 5-10
Roughly what time frame do you expect research assistant(s) to work?: Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Overall Research Project Description:
The Gulf of Mexico is renowned for its dynamic oceanographic features, prominently including the Loop Current and the large mesoscale eddies it generates—known as Loop Current eddies. These eddies play a crucial role in the region's ocean dynamics, influencing heat and nutrient transport and affecting regional climate patterns.

This research project aims to investigate how surface current feedback to the atmosphere impacts the properties of mesoscale eddies in the Gulf of Mexico. Surface current feedback to the atmosphere involves the transfer of energy from (sub)mesoscale eddies to the atmosphere through mechanical interactions between surface currents and atmospheric conditions. This process is critical for understanding the modulation of eddy properties and their interactions with the atmosphere.

To explore this, we will compare the statistical characteristics of mesoscale eddies derived from air-sea coupled numerical simulations. These simulations were conducted using two scenarios: one that incorporates the feedback of surface currents to the atmosphere and one that does not. By analyzing the resulting data, we will assess the extent to which this feedback mechanism influences eddy properties, such as their size, intensity, and lifecycle.

The outcomes of this study will provide valuable insights into the role of surface current feedback in shaping mesoscale eddies, enhancing our understanding of their behavior and impact in the Gulf of Mexico. This research will contribute to the broader knowledge of ocean-atmosphere interactions and improve predictive capabilities for regional ocean dynamics.

Research Tasks:
The student will analyze data from eddy-rich coupled numerical simulations to investigate the influence of surface current feedback on mesoscale eddy properties in the Gulf of Mexico. The analysis will involve detecting eddies based on sea level anomalies and calculating various statistical measures of their properties, such as size, intensity, and lifespan. Additionally, the student will conduct multivariate statistical analyses to explore relationships among different eddy characteristics.

A central focus will be on comparing results from simulations that incorporate surface current feedback with those that do not, to assess how this feedback modulates eddy properties. This will provide insights into the role of current feedback in shaping mesoscale eddy dynamics.

Throughout the project, the student will collaborate with researchers at the Center for Ocean-Atmospheric Prediction Studies (COAPS), gaining valuable experience and contributing to ongoing studies of Gulf of Mexico ocean dynamics.

Skills that research assistant(s) may need::
- Basic math skills, including vectors and calculus
- Proficiency in programming languages like Python or MATLAB
- Willingness to learn new concepts and acquire new skills
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team
- Strong motivation and a proactive attitude

Mentoring Philosophy:
I believe that mentoring is a collaborative learning process where both the mentor and student grow together. The foundation of this relationship is built on open communication, questions, and discussions. By exploring ideas and challenges together, we deepen our understanding and develop the tools needed to approach and solve problems effectively. My role as a mentor is to guide the student in their learning journey, encouraging curiosity and critical thinking while also being open to learning from the fresh perspectives and insights that the student brings. This mutual exchange not only fosters a productive learning environment but also enriches the research experience for both of us.

Please provide a link to your publications, a video clip, or a website for your research project (if applicable):: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=9sXUv5kAAAAJ&hl=es&oi=ao
Please add any additional information here (if applicable)::
This position offers a partially remote work arrangement. We can schedule a weekly meeting on the FSU campus, but the student also has the option to work from an office at COAPS, where space is available. However, I strongly encourage regular attendance at in-person meetings to foster collaboration and engagement.


Are you interested in participating in the UROP Research Mentor Roundtable?: Yes
Roundtable times and Zoom links:
Tuesday, September 3, 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM (https://fsu.zoom.us/j/2017742821)
Thursday, September 5, 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM (https://fsu.zoom.us/j/2017742821)
Friday, September 6, 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM (https://fsu.zoom.us/j/2017742821)

Roundtable Info:
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UROP Program Elements
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Mentor Handbook, FAQs, and Communication: Yes
UROP Performance Evaluation: Yes
Materials Grant: Yes
UROP Poster Presentation: Yes

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Year: 2024
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