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A scholar from Florida State University has earned a distinguished scholarship awarded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for his research examining the impact of wildfires on air quality.
Matthew Azuara, a sophomore majoring in meteorology from Guilford, Conn., has received the Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship, which comprises financial support along with a 10-week, full-time paid internship at a NOAA site next summer.
Azuara’s investigation at FSU has concentrated on the emissions resulting from agricultural burning practices across the eastern United States. The incineration of crop remains at season’s end can release particulate matter and greenhouse gases, posing negative health risks to surrounding communities and ecosystems. Azuara aims to explore potential variations between different crops.
“We’re working on compiling a database of agricultural pilot fires and then categorizing it by crop type,” Azuara remarked. “Meteorology has always captivated me since I was very young.”
He initiated his research via the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), where he collaborated under the guidance of Christopher Holmes, an associate professor in the Department of Earth, Ocean & Atmospheric Science.
Azuara’s collaboration with Holmes extends beyond UROP and focuses on employing new satellite-based tools to assess greenhouse gas and air pollution emissions from fires.
“Matthew’s recognition as a NOAA Hollings Scholar highlights his exceptional academic achievements and significant potential to influence the realm of atmospheric and environmental science,” Holmes commented. “Matthew has conducted remarkable independent research over the past two years. He should take great pride in this research and his numerous other successes at FSU.”
Through the Hollings internship next summer, Azuara will collaborate closely with a research mentor and gain practical experience at a NOAA facility of his preference. The scholarship also covers travel expenses for an orientation session and the annual Science & Education Symposium, where scholars present their research results.
“This is going to be a significant milestone for me – a tremendous opportunity – as I will get the chance to connect with so many individuals,” Azuara stated. “It’s going to reveal what is achievable.”
For additional details regarding the FSU Office of National Fellowships, visit onf.fsu.edu.
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