2 School of Physical Sciences researchers receive early-career funding from Department of Energy

Michael Pritchard, UCI assistant professor of Earth system science, and Jenny Yang, UCI assistant professor of chemistry, are among 35 individuals selected from 750 applicants to receive funding under the U.S. Department of Energy’s Early Career Research Program, which is designed to bolster the nation’s scientific workforce by providing support to exceptional researchers during their crucial early career years. “Modern U.S. supercomputers are so powerful that new Earth system simulation code can include details of storm and rainfall physics,” said Pritchard, an expert in next-generation climate simulation. “I’m thrilled with the DOE’s support, which will allow me to use this technology to advance scientific understanding of the multiscale physical processes that link storms and drought to climate in the central U.S.” Yang, whose research focuses on the development of catalysts for the production and utilization of chemical fuels, said: “It is truly an honor to receive this award. It’s also very exciting for my group members, who are working hard on many exciting projects toward catalyst discovery. Their enthusiasm and creativity fuels the research.” Pritchard and Yang will each receive $150,000 per year for five years to cover summer salary and research expenses.