FDSS: Faculty Development in Space Weather Research: A Systems Perspective

Investigator(s):

Menas Kafatos (PI) ; Maria Dworzecka (Co-PI) ; Robert Meier (Co-PI) ; Arthur Poland (Co-PI) ; John Wallin (Co-PI)

Sponsor:

George Mason University, 4400 University Drive VA 22030 7039931000

Start Date/Expiration Date

2005-03-15 to 2006-02-28 (amended 2005-03-18)

Awarded Amount to Date:

$180,000

Abstract: George Mason University (GMU) has initiated a new program within the School of Computational Sciences (SCS) centered on space weather. In order to implement and go forward with this program, three new tenure-track faculty positions in space weather are anticipated that will be joint with both the SCS and the Department of Physics and Astronomy (DPA). This proposal is for support for one of the positions. Given the already strong solar physics faculty at SCS, highest priority for the NSF-supported position will be given to a magnetospheric scientist. The new faculty member will work with the senior scientists at GMU to implement a novel curriculum focusing on an end-to-end systems approach to space weather. Students will be trained to have a working knowledge of the Sun, heliosphere, magnetosphere, and upper atmosphere/ionosphere, and how societal activities are affected by changes in the system. Research carried out by the faculty and students will focus on this approach, which is envisioned to lead to new knowledge about how the Sun-Earth system works and how to forecast consequences of space weather. In keeping with the missions of the SCS and the DPA, there will be a strong emphasis on the interdisciplinary nature of the space weather program and its applications to other fields. There will be a dedicated focus on exposing undergraduate students in physics and astronomy to space weather, on establishing a PhD track in space weather (as an option within the existing PhD programs), and on developing a strong education and outreach program in space weather. Graduates will meet the growing need for specialists in space weather brought on through the implementation of the National Space Weather Plan by various Government agencies, private industry, and other universities. Existing partnerships between GMU and nearby Federal and industrial laboratories will be strengthened by the new space weather program.

NSF Org:

ATM - Division of Atmospheric Sciences

Award Number:

0457577

Award Instrument:

Continuing grant

Program Manager:

Kile B. Baker
ATM Division of Atmospheric Sciences
GEO Directorate for Geosciences

NSF Program(s):

MAGNETOSPHERIC PHYSICS

Field Application(s):

Space

Program Reference Code(s):

UNASSIGNED, 0000

Program Element Code(s):

5750