Thomas Schanzer

Thomas uses high-resolution simulations to study the physics of convective downdrafts (strong localised downward air currents) in the atmosphere. He previously completed a Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) at UNSW, majoring in physics.

Supervised by: Prof. Steven Sherwood and Dr. Tim Raupach

Project Title: The high-level physics of downdrafts and their upscale impacts

Project Description: Downdrafts are the localised sinking motions in atmospheric convection. We lack a high-level understanding of their dynamics and their influence on larger-scale processes, which we need in order to properly represent them in climate models. My research aims to improve this understanding through detailed study of high-resolution simulations that resolve downdrafts explicitly. Specifically, I will (a) investigate the origins, destinations and properties of downdraft air parcels, and (b) investigate the vertical force balance using a technique that has not previously been applied to downdrafts.