Contact Information
Urbana, IL 61801
Biography
The group of Climate Modeling, Prediction, and Applications (C-MPA) is dedicated to climate modeling, prediction, and applications. We investigate climate risks involving physical phenomena (e.g., cyclones) and socioeconomic factors (e.g., energy transition). Our research emphasizes synergizing theoretical research in geophysical fluid dynamics with exciting development in observational capabilities, machine learning, and real-world applications.
Beyond the pursuit of research excellence, we believe in the importance of diverse thinking and fostering a collaborative environment. We encourage group members with solid foundational skills to explore fascinating subjects like data science, exo-climate, and economics studies. We firmly believe that a diverse range of interests and experiences enriches our scientific endeavors and fosters a well-rounded approach to problem-solving.
Education
- PhD in Atmospheric Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2018
- M.S. in Atmospheric Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2012
- B.S. in Marine Meteorology, Ocean University of China, 2011
Additional Campus Affiliations
Assistant Professor, Climate, Meteorology and Atmospheric Sciences
External Links
Recent Publications
Di Girolamo, L., Zhao, G., Zhang, G., Wang, Z., Loveridge, J., & Mitra, A. (2025). Decadal changes in atmospheric circulation detected in cloud motion vectors. Nature, 643(8073), 983-987. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-025-09242-1
Zhang, G., Rao, M., Yuval, J., & Zhao, M. (2025). Advancing seasonal prediction of tropical cyclone activity with a hybrid AI-physics climate model. Environmental Research Letters, 20(9), Article 094031. https://doi.org/10.1088/1748-9326/adf864
Zhang, G. (2025). Amplified summer wind stilling and land warming compound energy risks in Northern Midlatitudes. Environmental Research Letters, 20(3), Article 034015. https://doi.org/10.1088/1748-9326/adb1f8
Qian, Y., Hsu, P. C., Murakami, H., Zhang, G., Wang, H., & Duan, M. (2024). Intraseasonal Variability of Anticyclonic Rossby Wave Breaking and Its Impact on Tropical Cyclone Activity over the Western North Pacific. Journal of Climate, 37(1), 179-197. https://doi.org/10.1175/JCLI-D-23-0091.1
Li, Y., Xie, S. P., Lian, T., Zhang, G., Feng, J., Ma, J., Peng, Q., Wang, W., Hou, Y., & Li, X. (2023). Interannual Variability of Regional Hadley Circulation and El Niño Interaction. Geophysical Research Letters, 50(4), Article e2022GL102016. https://doi.org/10.1029/2022GL102016