Why Utah?

The University of Utah is a comprehensive R1 flagship university with easy access to research and recreational opportunities in the Rocky Mountains and spectacular National Parks. The Atmospheric Sciences department has a strong national reputation and is expanding its expertise in modern data science and artificial intelligence, now in a brand new building! Salt Lake City is a growing, high-tech, bike-friendly metropolitan area with vibrant cultural/entertainment amenities, an extensive transit system, a sunny, dry four-season climate and "the Greatest Snow on Earth." From an environmental science and policy perspective, few places offer such a unique opportunity to study the natural world in your backyard and contribute to solving today's most pressing environmental challenges.

Graduate Students

I am looking to recruit 1–2 Ph.D. students to start in Fall 2026. If you are interested, please fill out this Google Form before you apply. My research interests and general research projects are found on the research page. I will email strong applicants to set up a brief Zoom meeting.

Applicants ideally will have some experience with coding (Python, R, Matlab) and research in environmental science, atmospheric science/chemistry, machine learning, and/or computer science, along with at least some coursework or training in these topics. However, there are exceptions to the above as well. If you are unable to access the Google Form, please email me (makoto.kelp [at] utah.edu) with 'Prospective Student Ask' in the email subject line.

Formal applications are done through the Department of Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Utah. Try to have your application in around the 3rd or 4th week of December. Please refer to the in-depth FAQ which contains information about applying, admissions timeline, stipend, etc.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): https://atmos.utah.edu/graduate/graduate-faq.php
UU Atmospheric Sciences Graduate Student Guide: Link

Postdocs

I currently do not have funding for a postdoc, but the Wilkes Center will open its postdoctoral scholar fellowship on November 1st, 2025. Applications are due January 31, 2026. I would be happy to serve as a faculty sponsor on research projects focused on extreme air pollution, wildfires, and/or atmospheric chemistry using machine learning, satellites, and air quality modeling, and/or other tools! Email me if you are interested in applying.

How to apply: Link

Undergraduates

We are always happy to advise undergraduate students. If you are interested in doing a Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) in the group, please email me after consulting the below resources:

How to apply: https://our.utah.edu/urop-how-to-apply/
Deadlines: https://our.utah.edu/research-scholarship-opportunities/urop/