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3000 years of carbon monoxide records show positive impact of global intervention in the 1980s
An international team of scientists have assembled the first complete record of carbon monoxide concentrations in the southern hemisphere, based on measurements of air.
Meet DRI Atmospheric Modeler, John Mejia
John Mejia, Ph.D., is an associate research professor of Atmospheric Modeling at DRI. He was recently awarded a Mid-Career Advancement Award from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to support his research on climate change impacts to urban communities, including urban heat islands and air pollution.
Volcanic Eruptions Triggered Historical Global Cooling
The new study, led by the School of Earth and Environmental Sciences at St Andrews with international colleagues from the Desert Research Institute and others in Switzerland and the USA, and published in The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) (6 November 2023), finds that massive volcanic eruptions caused historical global cooling.
2026 Season Tickets Now Available!
For the 2026 season of Curiosity Lab by DRI, satisfy your curiosity by exploring the wonders of environmental science! Dive into fascinating topics like earth, water, and air research, and discover how science sparks creativity. Join us as we help answer your questions on the most pressing scientific issues and showcase Science That Matters Now.
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More than 60 years of scientific discovery and innovation, in Nevada and around the world
Since 1959, the faculty, students, and staff at DRI have advanced scientific knowledge to help solve pressing environmental challenges and improve human health. With more than 600 employees, over 300 projects on all seven continents, and two world-class research campuses in Reno and Las Vegas, DRI serves as one of the eight institutions in the Nevada System of Higher Education.
Atmospheric Sciences
Research and services related to air quality and associated health risks, climate, cloud and aerosol physics, renewable energy, fire science, and atmospheric dynamics.
Hydrologic Sciences
Research, development, and education services contributing to society’s fundamental understanding of hydrologic systems and advancing the sustainability of water resources.
Earth & Ecosystem Sciences
Research in the life & earth sciences, particularly those dealing with the complex interactions of geological processes, organisms, biological communities, and human societies.
Education & Workforce Development
Training Nevada's K-12 teachers and providing professional development opportunities and training for education-based activities.
Environmental Research Areas
DRI faculty and staff work in over 40 scientific fields on all seven continents.
40 Laboratories and Facilities
DRI has more than 40 specialized labs and facilities on research campuses in Reno and Las Vegas.
60 Years of Scientific Excellence
Since 1959, DRI has contributed to solving our toughest environmental challenges.
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