North Research Group

Our research involves trying to understand chemical reactivity on a microscopic quantum-state resolved level. We focus on isolated molecules in the gas-phase to develop a detailed description of the factors which influence the rates, energy disposal, and final products in a reaction. Our specific interests include understanding atmospheric photochemistry,  aerothermochemistry and energy transfer relevant to hypersonic flight, and laser diagnostic development for flow field characterization. We have also engaged in the study of tropospheric oxidation of biogenic hydrocarbons and instrumentation development for atmospheric monitoring. The state-of-the-art laboratory contains equipment to perform experiments in chemical dynamics, energy transfer, and kinetics and is associated with several interdisciplinary University Research Centers.