Pieternel Levelt: A New Face in Academia

In an exciting announcement, Pieternel Levelt, a leading figure at the U.S. National Science Foundation's National Center for Atmospheric Research (NSF NCAR), has been appointed as a member of the prestigious Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW). This remarkable achievement puts her among an elite group of scholars making significant contributions to their fields.

A Ceremony to Remember

This week, KNAW revealed that Levelt is one of 17 esteemed individuals chosen from a competitive pool of nominations across various scientific disciplines. The official installation of these new members is set to take place on September 29, marking a significant milestone in their academic careers.

Research that Matters: Tackling Air Pollution and Climate Change

Levelt has been at the helm of NSF NCAR’s Atmospheric Chemistry Observations & Modeling Laboratory since 2021, where her expertise lies in employing advanced satellite technology to investigate air pollution, monitor greenhouse gases, and study the ozone layer. Her groundbreaking research sheds light on the dispersal of pollutants and provides vital information on the health of our planet's atmosphere.

Key Projects and Contributions

As the principal investigator of the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) aboard NASA's EOS-Aura satellite, Levelt plays a crucial role in enhancing our understanding of atmospheric changes. Furthermore, she was the scientific mastermind behind the TROPOspheric Monitoring Instrument (TROPOMI), which is part of the ESA/EU Copernicus Sentinel-5 Precursor satellite, showcasing her commitment to impactful scientific endeavors.

A Dual Role in Academia and Science

Beyond her responsibilities at NSF NCAR, Levelt serves as a professor of remote sensing at Delft University of Technology and maintains an affiliation with the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute. Her multi-faceted career exemplifies her dedication to both research and societal engagement.

A Lifetime Honor

Expressing her pride, Levelt stated how honored she feels to be part of KNAW, noting that membership is a lifelong accolade. "It is a huge honor," she remarked, highlighting the significance of this recognition in her esteemed career.

Looking Ahead

As Pieternel Levelt embarks on this new chapter with KNAW, her contributions are sure to inspire new frontiers in atmospheric research and environmental stewardship. Stay tuned for more insights into her remarkable journey!