SPOTLIGHT: David Melecio-Vázquez

Posted on November 4, 2019

David Melecio-Vázquez, a Ph.D. candidate in mechanical engineering and NOAA-EPP CESSRST Fellow, researches High-Resolution Weather Forecasting for Urban Areas. His project utilizes observations from remote sensing instruments to evaluate forecasts generated from using high resolution (1 km) model outputs.

The goal of the research is to provide a quantified assessment of the models in order to highlight problems and point out paths for improvement. The Bronx resident, who holds a dual B.S. degree in aeronautical engineering and mechanical engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, uses remote sensing observations and computer modeling to characterize the urban boundary with a focus on the impact of human activity.

As part of his training, David recently completed a NERTO (NOAA Experiential Research & Training Opportunity) at the Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES) in Boulder, CO. He worked with two scientists, Jaymes Kenyon and Joseph Olson, on a project to couple the MYNN-PBL modeling scheme being developed at NOAA to urban physics for weather research and forecasting applications.

He also worked on two smaller projects that will move his primary project forward. Working with David Turner, an expert on model assessment, he improved his understanding of the microwave radiometer to make better use of comparisons to improve his own model. He also is working on a version of NOAA’s Model Analysis Tools Suite (MATS) that he will use to optimize verification of results for his primary task.

After completing his degree, he seeks to continue as a research scientist working on high-resolution modeling and/or the boundary layer. He hopes his knowledge in urban climate modeling can help provide guidance to decision-makers.