Researchers increasingly use AI for environmental modeling, but physics-based models still outperform AI for predicting extreme events. Heather Holmes wants to bridge that gap. “My domain science background is critical to develop responsible AI tools to protect human health and the environment,” she said. Holmes, who earned her master’s and PhD in mechanical engineering from the U, used her National Science Foundation CAREER award to create a course on high-performance computing and numerical weather prediction. She also co-founded Trace Air Quality, a U startup that provides advanced warnings when pollution events threaten air quality. Through the fellowship, Holmes will use AI to improve wildfire emissions estimates, winter air-quality forecasts, and exposure modeling for extreme events like smoke and heatwaves, strengthening early warning systems and protecting public health.
