Atmospheric Chemistry & Climate Change Research Lab
Research Field
Yu-Chieh Ting received his Ph.D. from the University of Manchester, United Kingdom, and joined the Graduate Institute of Environmental Engineering at National Taiwan University as an Assistant Professor in 2020. He was promoted to Associate Professor in August 2024. His research focuses on the physicochemical, photochemical, optical, and toxicological properties of atmospheric aerosols, with an emphasis on linking aerosol composition and transformation processes to air quality, climate-relevant optical effects, and human health impacts.
His current research interests center on the formation mechanisms and chemical evolution of fine particulate matter (PM₂.₅) and ozone, particularly the optical properties of organic aerosols such as brown carbon and their contributions to light absorption and radiative effects. He also investigates aerosol toxicity through atmospheric reactive oxygen species and particle oxidative potential, aiming to bridge aerosol chemistry with health-relevant exposure metrics. In addition, he is involved in research on the modification and valorization of organic waste materials for carbon capture and sustainable environmental applications.
The research in our laboratory primarily focuses on filter-based aerosol sampling. By collecting particulate matter samples over different time periods, we conduct comprehensive chemical analyses including inorganic ions, organic carbon (OC), elemental carbon (EC), trace and transition metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and aerosol oxidative potential. To resolve compounds with different polarities, multiple solvent extraction approaches are applied, enabling systematic investigations of the physicochemical and optical properties of atmospheric aerosols.
Based on these measurements, our research aims to elucidate aerosol formation mechanisms, source characteristics, toxicity, and light-absorbing properties, and to assess their implications for air quality, climate effects, and human health. Particular emphasis is placed on linking chemical composition with aerosol optical properties and health-relevant toxicity metrics to better understand the dual roles of aerosols in radiative forcing and health impacts.
In parallel, our laboratory also conducts research on ozone pollution, focusing on the roles of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) in ozone formation under different meteorological conditions. We investigate synergistic and antagonistic interactions among air pollutants and meteorological factors to improve mechanistic understanding and to identify more precise and effective air pollution mitigation strategies.
Our laboratory is equipped with a wide range of filter-based sampling and analytical instruments. Researchers interested in related topics or potential collaborations are warmly welcome to contact us for further discussion.
Gas–particle partitioning, size distribution, source apportionment, health risk, and oxidative potential of atmospheric polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and their derivatives.
Formation mechanisms and physicochemical and optical properties of atmospheric brown carbon investigated using high time-resolution sampling and reaction chamber simulations.
Utilization of biochar for sustainable energy applications and air pollution control.
Physicochemical and photochemical characteristics of water- and methanol-soluble organic aerosols in PM₂.₅ and their source-related impacts on human health.
Formation mechanisms of secondary organic aerosol and brown carbon and the roles of their precursors and atmospheric oxidative capacity.
Formation pathways, physicochemical and optical properties, and source contributions of PM₂.₅ brown carbon chromophores and their impacts on air quality and climate.
Mechanistic analysis of PM₂.₅ and ozone formation and the influence potential of their precursors and atmospheric oxidative capacity.
Outstanding Young Scholar Research Grant from Taiwan’s National Science and Technology Council (NSTC).
Chiu-Sen Award from Taiwan Association for Aerosol Research (TAAR).
2014~ 2019 Ph.D. School of the Earth, Atmospheric and Environmental Science. University of Manchester, UK
2010~ 2012 MSc. Environmental Engineering. National Chung Hsing University, Taiwan
2006~ 2010 BSc. Environmental Engineering, National Chung Hsing University, Taiwan
Job Description
The intern may participate in data analysis related to ongoing or previous collaborative research projects, focusing on the integration of observational and experimental datasets with atmospheric model simulations. In these projects, the host institution provides high-quality observational or experimental data, while the intern conducts data processing, statistical analysis, and visualization to support model-based analyses performed by the collaborating research team. The intern may assist in evaluating model performance, interpreting observation–model consistency, and exploring the implications of simulated results under different meteorological or heatwave conditions. Under supervision, the intern may also contribute to research outputs such as technical reports, presentations, or draft manuscripts.
Preferred Intern Educational Level
Mater student
Skill sets or Qualities
Academic background in atmospheric science, environmental engineering, climate science, or related fields
Experience in analyzing meteorological and air quality datasets, particularly for urban or regional studies
Proficiency in data analysis and visualization using tools such as Python, R, or MATLAB
Familiarity with heatwave metrics and basic ozone photochemistry is preferred
Understanding of observation–model comparison concepts (e.g., temporal alignment, statistical evaluation, uncertainty interpretation) is an advantage
Ability to perform statistical analyses and interpret results in a scientific context
Strong analytical thinking and attention to data quality and consistency
Good written and verbal communication skills for presenting scientific results
Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within an international research team
Motivation to engage in interdisciplinary research related to climate–air quality interactions