Brian Carroll is a research scientist at NOAA's Chemical Sciences Laboratory (CSL) studying wind patterns and their impact on air quality, wildfires, wind energy, and more. Carroll uses lasers to measure winds from a distance (Doppler lidar), and he participates in a variety of field campaigns—most recently for the 2023 CUPiDS (Coastal Urban Plume Dynamics Study) campaign in the New York City region, which was featured on the Today Show. CUPiDS will improve our understanding of what pollution is produced by the city and how it changes as it is transported over the Long Island Sound and other surrounding areas. His wildfire research also includes the 2022 CalFiDE (California Fire Dynamics Experiment) campaign, which used aircraft and trucks to make measurements of wildfire behavior and smoke. In summer 2024, Carroll will travel to Utah to study summertime ozone study in the Salt Lake City region. His favorite book right now is Normal People by Sally Rooney, and his favorite food is potatoes. “When very young I was once caught gnawing on a raw potato. I still would, if I hadn't learned how to cook,” Carroll said.

Humans of CIRES Q&A

Q: What do you do here at CIRES?
I use lasers to measure wind from a distance, then study the wind patterns to better understand a wide variety of human and Earth system interactions including air quality, wildfires, and wind energy.

Q: Where is the most exciting place you’ve traveled to for your research/job?
The most memorable travel for my job with CIRES was studying active wildfires in California. The challenges of safely navigating the fires, taking useful measurements, and being present in affected communities really drove home the importance of the work.

Q: Favorite book?
My favorite book right now is Normal People by Sally Rooney. It's insightful and relatable on how we develop as people and in relationships, with a captivating writing style.

Q: Favorite food?
Potatoes! When very young I was once caught gnawing on a raw potato. I still would, if I hadn't learned how to cook.