Debra Wunch named finalist for Global Climate Research Prize

Debra Wunch, an associate professor in the department of physics and the School of the Environment at the University of Toronto's Faculty of Arts & Science, has been named a finalist for the inaugural Global Climate Research Prize.

The prize, founded by the University of Cambridge and Finland’s LUT University, recognizes exceptionally impactful multidisciplinary research dedicated to understanding and mitigating climate change.

Wunch is chair of the Total Carbon Column Observing Network (TCCON), a global network of measurement stations combining ground-based observations with satellite data to provide accurate monitoring of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, particularly carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. TCCON spans 30 locations around the world, including three in Canada – one in Saskatchewan at East Trout Lake, led by Wunch, and two in Nunavut, at Eureka on Ellesmere Island and Cambridge Bay on Victoria Island, both led by Kimberly Strong, a professor of physics.

The research supports the study of atmospheric change and carbon cycles, while validating climate models and tracking of methane and nitrous oxide emissions.

“I am honoured to represent all my TCCON colleagues in being considered for this prize, alongside fellow nominees who are all pursuing vital work in addressing climate change,” says Wunch.

The winner of the prize will be announced at a ceremony at the Cambridge Union Society on June 10.

Read about the Global Climate Research Prize