Tessa's Science Blog
Summary
I am a Ph.D. candidate in Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, specializing in the intersection of air quality, atmospheric chemistry, and climate. My research leverages satellite observations to improve particulate matter (PM) simulations, examines how model chemistry settings impact simulated PM, and investigates the role of wildfires in shaping urban air quality and climate.
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Beyond research, I am passionate about translating scientific insights into actionable solutions for a more sustainable future. As a Policy & Research Legislative Fellow, I collaborated with Illinois State Representatives to research and conduct outreach on renewable energy incentives available to constituents.
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I am eager to pursue interdisciplinary postdoctoral projects that tackle pressing environmental challenges at the intersection of science and policy.

Education

August 2020 - October 2025 (Expected)
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Ph.D., Environmental Engineering
Energy-Water-Environment-Sustainability
August 2017 - September 2018
University College Dublin
M.Eng.Sci., Water, Waste and Environmental Engineering
1st Class Honors
August 2013 - May 2017
University of Notre Dame
B.S., Major: Environmental Engineering, Minor: Energy Studies
magna cum laude