Sophie Weller

Biography

I am a PGR based in the Wolfson Atmospheric Chemistry Laboratories (WACL) at the University of York, working with Professor James Lee, Dr James Hopkins and Dr Stephen Andrews investigating volatile organic compounds (VOCs). I previously completed my BSc in Chemistry, the Atmosphere and the Environment at the University of York, before completing an MSc in Atmosphere, Ocean and Climate in the department of Meteorology at the University of Reading. My MSc dissertation concerned improving biogenic emission factors of isoprene in the United Kingdom Earth System Model (UKESM) by exploring model runs with emphasis on different plant functional types. Outside of academia, I enjoy playing the violin in various classical and folk ensembles.

Qualifications

  • 2024 – 2025: MSc in Atmosphere, Ocean and Climate from the University of Reading
  • 2021 – 2024: BSc in Chemistry, the Atmosphere and Environment from the University of York

Links

Research Interests

  • Atmospheric Chemistry
  • Air Quality
  • Climate Science and Modelling

Teaching Interests

  • Chemistry
  • Maths
  • Meteorology

PhD: Understanding Volatile Organic Compounds in the Tropical Atlantic Ocean

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) play a fundamental role in atmospheric processes, particularly as precursors to ozone and secondary organic aerosols. The main source of oxidation for VOCs is the hydroxyl radical (OH), which affects the oxidative capacity of the atmosphere.

This project will use data from a new state of the art gas chromatography – mass spectrometer (GC-MS) to improve understanding of the sources, distribution and effects of VOCs. I will be running this GC-MS as part of the TropOx campaign in Cape Verde to strengthen the understanding of the tropical tropospheric oxidation capacity and investigate the effect of dust, sea salt and biomass burning on VOCs.”