Texas A&M atmospheric sciences assistant professor Dr. Yue Zhang has received the National Science Foundation (NSF) CAREER Award, one of the most prestigious NSF honors for early-career faculty. This recognition highlights Zhang’s research on how pollutants, like nanoplastics and PFAS, behave in the atmosphere.
Zhang’s research focuses on developing methods to quantify emerging pollutants and their atmospheric impacts, which are an increasing concern for environmental health and public safety. His work, which includes mobile measurements and laboratory experiments, aims to identify the sources and distribution of these pollutants. The findings could improve understandings of health impacts and predictions of cloud formation and climate.
This research is a topic recently highlighted in a student profile on a member of Zhang’s lab team, Sahir Gagan. The project will also include educational outreach, such as an exhibition at the Brazos Museum of Natural History and collaboration with local high schools to engage students in the science behind these pollutants.
“Micro- and nanoplastic particles are an emerging pollution threat,” Zhang said. “This award will help us develop methods to understand their sources and environmental impacts before they become more harmful.”
The NSF CAREER Award will support this research for the next five years, providing an opportunity to address the growing threat of microplastic pollution before it has lasting effects on the environment and human health.