Who Are We?
Hello! I am Dr. Nsikanabasi Silas Umo, an atmospheric chemist and Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. I am passionate about understanding how tiny particles in the air—like dust, volcanic ash, and soot—influence clouds, water security, air quality, weather, and their impacts in the atmosphere.
My research focuses on aerosol–cloud interactions, ice-nucleating particles, and atmospheric chemistry of aerosol particles. At Umo AeroCloud Laboratory, I study the role of aerosols in cloud formation, air quality, energy, water security, and climate change. My studies on volcanic ash, combustion aerosols, sulfur oxidation products, and soil dusts have significantly advanced both laboratory science and global climate modelling. My work combines laboratory experiments, field studies, and modelling to uncover how these particles affect precipitation, air pollution, and global climate systems.
Beyond research, I also engage in teaching and training students, developing novel aerosol instrumentation and technologies, and collaborations. I enjoy hiking, badminton, and volunteering in my community.
My name is Aidan Mallory, and I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry, currently pursuing a Master’s in Chemistry. My main research interest is analytical chemistry, with a focus on developing ice nucleation instruments for studying and characterizing marine aerosols to understand which particles in the atmosphere drive ice formation in coastal climate systems. I am also quite interested in paleontology, specifically how we dig up and analyze fossils to understand how dinosaurs lived. That’s what I would be doing if I didn’t go into chemistry!
M.S. Chemistry UNCW ’27
B.S. Chemistry UNCW 2029
Hey, my name is Presley Schettler. I am a Chemistry major and am interested in ice nucleation and how anthropogenic particles influence cloud formation and natural processes.
Looking further, I would like to specifically see how our agricultural/cattle farms directly influence the rate at which clouds freeze/form. A small fun fact and the reason why I find this topic particularly interesting is because I come from North Dakota, which is primarily agriculture and cattle farms!
Hi, my name is Adrean! I’m a Chemistry major at UNC Wilmington, and my research interests are in marine aerosols and cloud formation. I’ve always liked chemistry because it helps explain how things work, and I especially enjoy being able to see what I learn in class connect to real research. In the lab, I’m interested in learning more about marine aerosols and how they can affect cloud formation.
For some fun facts about me, I’m an ISNJ, I love cats, and I really like rainy days and fall and winter. My favorite color is blue because it makes me feel calm. I think the little things that make you feel comfortable and happy are important, and I definitely appreciate having time to slow down.
B.S. Chemistry UNCW 2029
Sciences UNCW 2029
Hi, I’m Gabbi Brauns I’m majoring in environmental science with a double minor in climate change and GIS, Remote sensing, and UAS. My research interests include marine aerosols and cloud formation in hurricanes.
Hello, my name is Elizabeth Dokulil, I am a second year undergraguate student majoring in Chemistry. On a research level, I am especially fascinated by learning about how science works on a molecular level and how those interactions can have large, lasting impacts on different aspects of people’s lives. I am also very interested in topics surrounding aerosol research, physical chemistry, organic chemistry, molecular biology, and biochemistry. I am looking forward to expanding my knowledge through academic opportunities to help foster my growth.
Outside of academics, I am a member of the UNCW Track & Field and Cross Country team. I also enjoy spending time with friends and family, hiking and reading as well as traveling to gain new experiences.
My name is Claire Lewis, and I am double majoring in Biochemistry and Criminology with a minor in Forensic Science. I am interested in researching how aerosols affect human health, how exposure to airborne particles affects the human body, and how the scientific analysis of these particles can contribute to forensic investigations. Outside of academics, I enjoy learning new languages, creating art, and dancing.
Past members
