Marty Ralph

Dr. F. Martin Ralph is a prominent meteorologist and the Director of the Center for Western Weather and Water Extremes (CW3E) at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego. His work primarily focuses on understanding the physical processes that lead to extreme precipitation events, including both floods and droughts, with a particular emphasis on atmospheric rivers and their impact on mid-latitude precipitation patterns.

Education and Career Background

• Education: Dr. Ralph holds a B.S. in Meteorology from the University of Arizona (1984), an M.S. in Atmospheric Sciences from UCLA (1987), and a Ph.D. in Atmospheric Sciences from UCLA (1991) .14

• NOAA Career: Before joining Scripps in 2013, he served as the Chief of the Water Cycle Branch at NOAA's Earth System Research Laboratory from 2001 to 2013. During his tenure, he led significant initiatives such as the Hydrometeorology Testbed and managed various programs aimed at improving weather prediction capabilities .12

Current Role at CW3E

Since establishing CW3E, Dr. Ralph has focused on advancing research related to weather extremes in the Western U.S. This includes developing strategic partnerships, securing funding, and overseeing interdisciplinary teams dedicated to enhancing weather forecasting and water management practices .35 Under his leadership, CW3E has grown to include around 80 staff members and collaborates with various institutions to tackle pressing water-related challenges .3

Research Interests

Dr. Ralph's research encompasses several key areas:

• Precipitation Processes: Investigating the mechanisms behind rain and snow formation.
• Hydrometeorology: Examining atmospheric conditions that influence streamflow over different timescales.
• Water Resources Management: Creating tools for effective water supply management amid climate change.
• Observational Techniques: Innovating new methods for monitoring precipitation and water cycles .46

Dr. Ralph has authored over 75 peer-reviewed publications, contributing significantly to the field of meteorology and hydrology .2 His work not only enhances scientific understanding but also informs practical applications in weather forecasting and water resource management.

In summary, Dr. F. Martin Ralph is a leading figure in meteorological research focused on extreme weather phenomena, with a robust academic background and extensive experience in both research and practical application within governmental agencies and academic institutions.