UROP Project

Air-sea interactions, ocean, atmosphere, current feedback, coupled numerical simulations, mesoscale, Gulf of Mexico

Research Mentor: Marco Larrañaga, Him
Department, College, Affiliation: Center for Ocean-Atmospheric Prediction Studies (COAPS), Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: marco.larranaga@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:

Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors
Project Location: Research Foundation Building A, 2000 Levy Ave #292, Tallahassee, FL 32310
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Yes
Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: 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)

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