John Taylor

I study ocean physics and biogeochemistry using simulations, theory, and field data 

Research Area

Our research group studies ocean dynamics across a wide range of scales, from ocean eddies (~100km) to small-scale turbulence (<1m). Ocean dynamics has a strong influence on important processes in the climate system, including transport of heat and carbon, melting of sea ice and marine terminating glaciers, and biological and chemical cycles. The processes and connections in these systems are complex, and we use a combination of numerical simulations, data, and theory to unravel the connections and improve our understanding of the climate system.

Project Interests

There are several possible projects studying the influence of ocean turbulence on the Earth’s climate. Where glaciers and ice shelves meet the ocean, small-scale turbulence transports heat towards the ice and influences the rate of melting. At major ocean fronts like the Gulf Stream, turbulence transports heat and carbon into the ocean interior. Turbulence is also important in ocean solutions, including mixing from offshore wind farms, nutrient delivery into kelp farms, and dilution of alkalinity releases. Ultra high-resolution simulations allow us to study these systems to gain insight into the underlying processes and ultimately to improve climate model forecasts.