My research focuses primarily on the development, application, and use of optical-based sensors for environmental chemical measurements. My research aims to develop novel sensors that can be deployed for in situ measurements in both aqueous and atmospheric environments. I use several types of spectroscopy, including laser-based techniques, in order to work in different environments and to detect different types of species. The targets of my work range from trace gases to heavy metals in sediments. Through the use of gas extraction techniques, many techniques, such as laser-based spectroscopy, can be adapted for in situ analyses. The spectroscopic techniques include:

Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy

Deep Ultraviolet LED-based Spectroscopy

Mid-Infrared Spectroscopy


Funding is gratefully acknowledged from a variety of sources including the National Science Foundation, the Deep Ocean Exploration Institute, WHOI Access to the Sea Fund, WHOI Assistant Scientist Endowed Fund, MIT Sea Grant, WHOI Innovative Technology Fund, and the WHOI Independent Study Award.


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