The Harper Lab @UGA

Studying the land and climate

We study the interactions between the land and the climate system using Earth system models and a variety of measurements, datasets, and techniques.

University of Georgia, Department of Geography

Atmospheric Sciences Program

My research broadly focuses on the interactions between vegetation, people, and climate. More than two-thirds of the global land surface is managed by humans. The land is ground zero for the human response to climate change, as we seek to enhance and protect natural carbon sinks or to manage landscapes to reduce the impacts of climate change. My work aims to improve the models of the Earth system for these applications, and to better understand how ecosystems respond to a changing environment. I also use data from satellites and ground measurements to better constrain the models and projections.

In addition to research, I am passionate about teaching and equipping students with the knowledge base and tools to engage with the grand challenge of climate change. For example, from 2017-2023 (at my previous university), I contributed to a week-long, intensive, and hands-on teaching experience, where students found creative ways to combat climate disinformation and spread stories of hope.