Public Domain Picture: Ruby Leung

Building accurate, intricate computer models that allow scientists and stakeholders to understand the interplay between Earth, water, clouds, and atmosphere is what Dr. Ruby Leung does at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. She conducts cutting-edge research and refines models that are vital to predicting climate and understanding the impact of energy policies, new technologies, and our changing climate. As an example, to better simulate climate change effects on hydrologic conditions over mountain watersheds, she developed a unique framework for modeling the regional coupled atmosphere and terrestrial systems. She also applies regional climate models to study hydroclimate processes and climate extremes, and the aerosol effects on regional climate and hydrological cycle. She received her M.S. and Ph.D. in atmospheric science from Texas A&M University. She earned a bachelor's degree in physics and statistics from Chinese University of Hong Kong, where she was the only woman in her graduating class of the physics department. Ruby is an outstanding mentor. She works closely with early career scientists and provides them with opportunities to develop new ideas and excel. She also participates as a mentor to many people through the lab's scientist and engineer development program. Read her full story at energy.gov/diversity/articles/women-energy-ruby-leung

540

1

Energy, Stem, Women

June 11, 2014