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NOAA Science Seminar Series
Past 2026 Seminars

All seminar times are given in Eastern Time

10 February 2026

Title: Low Earth Orbit Satellite Observations: A Key Element in Enhancing Tropical Cyclone Predictions
Presenter(s): Isaac Moradi, Research Scientist, ESSIC, CISESS, University of Maryland, College Park, and NASA Global Modelling and Assimilation Office, Goddard Space Flight Center
Date & Time: 10 February 2026
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm ET
Location: Webinar
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Low Earth Orbit Satellite Observations: A Key Element in Enhancing Tropical Cyclone Predictions
LEO Science Seminar Series

Presenter(s): Dr. Isaac Moradi, Research Scientist, Earth System Science Interdisciplinary Center (ESSIC) / Cooperative Institute for Satellite Earth System Studies (CISESS), University of Maryland, College Park, and NASA Global Modelling and Assimilation Office, Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC)

Sponsor(s): NOAA/NESDIS Office of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Observations

Seminar Contact(s): Amy Leibrand, amy.leibrand@noaa.gov

Remote Access:
Google Meet joining info
https://meet.google.com/oqb-wusn-jqu
Or dial: (US) +1 414-909-7504 PIN: 764 065 528#


Accessibility: N/A

Abstract: Tropical cyclones are among the most destructive natural disasters, causing widespread damage and loss of life each year. Accurate forecasting, driven by satellite observations and high-resolution numerical models, is essential for mitigating their impact. This seminar examines how assimilating observations from Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites and increasing model resolution enhance cyclone track predictions, helping to prevent delayed warnings and minimize unnecessary evacuations.

Slides, Recordings, Other Materials: Email seminar contact.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

5 February 2026

Title: Extending Close-Kin Mark-Recapture to Protogynous Fishes: A Simulation-Based Evaluation of Model Performance for Gulf Gag Grouper (Mycteroperca microlepis)
Presenter(s): Dr. Lisa Ailloud, NOAA NMFS SEFSC Gulf Branch
Date & Time: 5 February 2026
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm ET
Location: Online
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Extending Close-Kin Mark-Recapture to Protogynous Fishes: A Simulation-Based Evaluation of Model Performance for Gulf Gag Grouper (Mycteroperca microlepis)NOAA Library Seminars

Presenter(s): Dr. Lisa Ailloud, NOAA NMFS SEFSC Gulf Branch

Sponsor(s): NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) and NOAA Library

Seminar Contact(s): Dr. Bai Li (bai.li@noaa.gov) and Library Seminars

Remote Access: https://vimeo.com/event/5671899

Accessibility: Captions are available during the live presentation and once uploaded to the NOAA Central Library YouTube Channel automatic captions are added. Sign language interpreting services and closed captioning are available, but need to be requested at least 5 days before the event.

Abstract: We derive CKMR kinship probabilities for protogynous fishes and include them in an integrated stock assessment framework for estimating abundance. Using simulation, we evaluate the robustness of this approach to uncertainty in male contribution to reproductive success and CKMR data information content and structure. We model our simulation after Gulf Gag Grouper whose population has experienced large declines and considerable shifts in sex ratios over the last half century. We show that CKMR can produce unbiased abundance and sex ratio estimates only if the relative contribution of male and female age classes to reproductive success is not misspecified and the level of mitochondrial haplotype diversity in the population is well estimated. We also highlight the potential for CKMR data to estimate parameters of the sex transition and male reproductive contribution functions in an integrated modeling framework.

Recordings: Recordings will be shared 24 hours after the event on the NOAA Library YouTube channel.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!
Title: Drought in the Midwest Webinar: Conditions, Outlooks, and Resources
Presenter(s): Molly Woloszyn, Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences/NOAA's National Integrated Drought Information System; Zack Leasor, University of Missouri; Trent Frey, National Weather Service; Kelsey Eigsti, Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences/NOAA's National Integrated Drought Information System
Date & Time: 5 February 2026
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm ET
Location: webinar
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series



Title: Drought in the Midwest

Remote Access: Conditions, Outlooks, and Resources



Presenter(s):
Current Drought Conditions and Impacts
Zack Leasor | University of Missouri

Drought Outlook Information
Trent Frey | NOAA National Weather Service Detroit

Special Presentation: Midwest Drought Indicators: Understanding Regional and Seasonal Significance
Kelsey Eigsti | CIRES/NOAA/NIDIS



Sponsor(s): NOAA's National Integrated Drought Information System



Seminar Contact(s):
Molly Woloszyn, mary.woloszyn@noaa.gov



Remote Access: Please register at https://purdue-edu.zoom.us/meeting/register/A5yYT1K_TxCF-0EFAB3XqA#/registration

Location: Webinar



Abstract: This webinar is part of a bi-monthly drought webinar series designed to provide stakeholders and other interested parties in the Midwest with timely and relevant drought information and resources.

Information presented will include current and developing drought conditions, associated impacts across sectors and industries (e.g., agriculture, ecosystems, navigation, water supply, public health), and outlook information for the coming months and seasons. The webinar will also showcase new and innovative drought research and resources, success stories for managing drought, and other topics relevant to the Midwest region.

This webinar series will serve as a platform to share knowledge, foster collaboration, and support informed decision-making across the Midwest. It is hosted by NOAA's NIDIS Midwest Drought Early Warning System (DEWS) in partnership with NOAA's National Weather Service and Climate Prediction Center, Midwestern Regional Climate Center, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Mid-Continent Region.



Slides, Recordings, Other Materials: Will be available here.



Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

Title: Which attributes of restored oyster reefs provide the best habitat for sportfish?
Presenter(s): Dr. Matt Kendall and Brianna Cahill, members of NCCOS Marine Spatial Ecology Division
Date & Time: 5 February 2026
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm ET
Location: webinar & SSMC4 8th floor lrg conference room
Description:

OneNOAA Science Seminar SeriesWhen: Feb 5 2026, 12:30-1:30 PM ETWhere: Webinar AND SSMC4 8th floor large

Title: Which attributes of restored oyster reefs provide the best habitat for sportfish?

Presenter(s): Dr. Matt Kendall and Brianna Cahill, National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, NOAA National Ocean Service

Seminar Contact(s): Varis.Ransi@noaa.gov

Remote Access: Register at https://noaabroadcast.adobeconnect.com/kendallbri/event/registration.html You may enter the webinar via a browser or the Adobe Connect app (download here). Test your ability to use Adobe Connect here. After the webinar, a link to the recording will be posted online.

Accessibility: Live closed captioning will not be provided.

Abstract: Oyster reefs provide habitat for many fish species targeted by recreational fisheries, but unfortunately, reef extent is in decline in many regions. In response, coastal managers seek ways to restore oyster ecosystems and their role as fish habitat, but they require information on which specific habitat parameters of oyster reefs are preferred by fish in order to design future restoration projects. The goal of this study was to evaluate the use of restored oyster reefs with a diverse suite of design characteristics (i.e., substrates, depths, rugosities) by common recreational fisheries species and other fishes that occupy the same habitat. Specifically, we quantify 1) broad-scale site fidelity of fishes at restored reefs, 2) fish association with particular reefs made from substrates including oyster shell, river rock, limestone, concrete rubble, and mixed shell and concrete poles, and 3) the influence of reef rugosity, edges, and depth on fish preference among reefs. Fish movements were tracked by implanting coded transmitters into their body cavity and monitoring their positions using an array of acoustic receivers over a grid of restored oyster reefs with different characteristics. Restoration practitioners can incorporate the best design elements to enhance oyster reef habitat for recreational fisheries.

Bio(s): Dr. Kendall has been with NCCOS for over 26 years examining various aspects of biogeography. He earned a BS from the University of South Carolina, an MS from NC State, PhD from the University of Maryland, and always keeps up to date on his IT security awareness certification through the Commerce Learning Center. /// Brianna has been with NCCOS for 1.5 years focusing on animal movement ecology in restored habitats. Prior to her time with NCCOS, she earned a BS from Stony Brook University and a MS from Florida Atlantic University.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail:
Send an email to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the One NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information.

4 February 2026

Title: Stitching It Together: Photogrammetry and Photomosaics
Presenter(s): Donavon French, Research Specialist, Cardinal Point Captains for Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary
Date & Time: 4 February 2026
7:30 pm - 8:30 pm ET
Location: Remote Access Only
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Stitching It Together: Photogrammetry and PhotomosaicsSeries: National Marine Sanctuaries Webinar Series

Presenter(s): Donavon French, Research Specialist, Cardinal Point Captains for Flower Garden Banks National Marine SanctuaryRegister: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/6541440427829732191

Sponsor(s): NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries

Seminar Contact(s): Claire.Fackler@noaa.gov

Abstract: Coral reef monitoring through photography is a long-standing tradition at NOAA's Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary, with data collected for over 30 years. As technology advances, the sanctuary's research team is introducing modeling methods through photogrammetry to enhance their long-term monitoring efforts. Donavon French is leading up the effort to better understand the health of the reef by stitching photos together to get a 3-D view and larger-scale 2-D images of the reef.

Accessibility: English captions will be provided for the recording.Recording: The presentation will be recorded; once captioned it will be hosted on the archived webpage: https://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/education/teachers/webinar-series-archives.html.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail:
Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!
Title: The Skywarn Spotter Program: The vital role of citizen scientists in severe weather
Presenter(s): Joe Moore, Warning Coordination Meteorologist, NWS Duluth, MN
Date & Time: 4 February 2026
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm ET
Location: online
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: The Skywarn Spotter Program: The vital role of citizen scientists in severe weatherNOAA Library Seminars

Presenter(s): Joe Moore, Warning Coordination Meteorologist, NWS Duluth, MN

Sponsor(s): NOAA Library and NOAA Education

Seminar Contact(s): library.seminars@noaa.gov

Remote Access: https://vimeo.com/event/5647540

Accessibility: Captions are available during the live presentation and once uploaded to the NOAA Library YouTube Channel automatic captions are added. Sign language interpreting services and closed captioning are available, but need to be requested at least 5 days before the event.

Abstract: Meteorologists at the National Weather Service use numerous tools to predict and warn for severe weather like radar, satellite, and computer models, but no tool is quite as powerful as the ground truth reports from Skywarn spotters. This talk will cover the role of the Skywarn program as both a weather education and recruitment tool for the National Weather Service, and how spotters play a vital role in severe weather operations across the country. The training spotters receive may vary across the country, but the role they play to support the National Weather Service warning process is critical to produce effective warnings that will truly compel those in danger to get to shelter.

Recordings: Recordings will be shared 24 hours after the event on the NOAA Library YouTube channel.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

28 January 2026

Title: Building Resilience in Florida: Smart Rain Gardens for Urban Flood Mitigation and Water Quality Improvement
Presenter(s): Dr. Jason Evans, Stetson University, Executive Director, Institute for Water and Environmental Resilience and Professor of Environmental Science and Studies. Zachary Eichholz, City of Cape Canaveral, Chief Resilience Manager. Robyn DeYoung, Environmental Protection Agency, Green Infrastructure Lead
Date & Time: 28 January 2026
2:30 pm - 3:30 pm ET
Location: Online
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Building Resilience in Florida: Smart Rain Gardens for Urban Flood Mitigation and Water Quality ImprovementNOAA Library Seminars

Presenter(s): Dr. Jason Evans, Stetson University, Executive Director, Institute for Water and Environmental Resilience and Professor of Environmental Science and Studies. Zachary Eichholz, City of Cape Canaveral, Chief Resilience Manager. Robyn DeYoung, Environmental Protection Agency, Green Infrastructure Lead

Sponsor(s): NOAA Library

Seminar Contact(s): library.seminars@noaa.gov

Remote Access: https://vimeo.com/event/5383075

Accessibility: Captions are available during the live presentation and once uploaded to the NOAA Library YouTube Channel automatic captions are added. Sign language interpreting services and closed captioning are available, but need to be requested at least 5 days before the event.

Abstract: Stressors such as more extreme rainfall events, high amounts of impervious cover, and aging gray stormwater infrastructure have resulted in increasing urban flooding risks within the purview of the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council. In 2022, Stetson University and partners received a NOAA Sea Grant to support community engagement and a vulnerability assessment and regional resilience action plan. This effort led to Stetson University securing a $1 million grant in 2023 through the National Science Foundation's CIVIC Innovation Challenge to construct and monitor a smart rain garden in the City of Cape Canaveral. Hear about their collaborative success story and hard evidence of the rain garden's ability to manage stormwater and reduce urban flooding during extreme rain events.

Recordings: Recordings will be shared 24 hours after the event on the NOAA Library YouTube channel.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

27 January 2026

Title: Eelgrass Sustains Life in the Salish Sea
Presenter(s): Olivia J. Graham, PhD is a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Cornell University
Date & Time: 27 January 2026
8:00 pm - 9:00 pm ET
Location: Remote Access Only
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Eelgrass Sustains Life in the Salish SeaSeries: National Marine Sanctuaries Webinar Series

Presenter(s): Olivia J. Graham, PhD is a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Cornell UniversityRegister: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7007690532526609502

Sponsor(s): NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries

Seminar Contact(s): Claire.Fackler@noaa.gov

Abstract: Join us to hear Dr. Olivia J. Graham talk about eelgrass; what it is, and why it matters to coastal ecosystems. She'll share the significance of eelgrass in sustaining coastal ecosystems along with recent eelgrass health and resilience research based at University of Washington's Friday Harbor Labs on San Juan Island.

Accessibility: English captions will be provided for the recording.Recording: The presentation will be recorded; once captioned it will be hosted on the archived webpage: https://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/education/teachers/webinar-series-archives.html.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail:
Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!
Title: Arctic Report Card 2026: Celebrating the 20th Edition
Presenter(s): Rick Thoman, Climate Specialist, Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Preparedness; Abagael Pruitt, Postdoctoral Scholar, University of California Davis; Hannah-Marie Ladd, Indigenous Sentinels Network, Aleut Community of St. Paul Island; Veronica Padula, Chief Science Officer of the Bering Sea Research Center, Aleut Community of St. Paul Island
Date & Time: 27 January 2026
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm ET
Location: Webinar
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Arctic Report Card 2026: Celebrating the 20th Edition


Presenter(s): Rick Thoman, Climate Specialist, Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Preparedness; Abagael Pruitt, Postdoctoral Scholar, University of California Davis; Hannah-Marie Ladd, Indigenous Sentinels Network, Aleut Community of St. Paul Island; Veronica Padula, Chief Science Officer of the Bering Sea Research Center, Aleut Community of St. Paul Island

Sponsor(s): NOAA/OAR/Climate Program Office and the Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Preparedness (ACCAP)

Seminar Contact(s): Ed Plumb (ewplumb@alaska.edu) & Genie Bey (genie.bey@noaa.gov)

Remote Access: https://uaf-accap.org/event/arctic-report-card-2026/

Abstract: The Arctic Report Card provides an annual update on the state of the Arctic system, highlighting key climate indicators and the impacts of rapid environmental change on Arctic communities and ecosystems. This ACCAP webinar will review major findings from this year's 20th edition, marking two decades of sustained observations and scientific assessment. Speakers will share insights from the newest essays and indicators compiled by international research teams. Supported by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Arctic Report Card is released each December at the American Geophysical Union Fall Meeting.

Bio(s): Rick Thoman is the ACCAP Alaska Climate Specialist and has many years of experience producing reliable Alaska climate information and graphics describing Alaska's changing environment. His work spans the bridge between climate modeling, Alaska communities, and the media.

Abagael Pruitt is a postdoctoral scholar at the University of California, Davis, in the Department of Environmental Toxicology. She works on the Rusting Rivers project, and is a coauthor on the Rusting Rivers chapter of the 2025 Arctic Report Card.

Veronica Padula is the Chief Science Officer of the Bering Sea Research Center, which is operated by the Aleut Community of St. Paul Island Tribal Government. In this role, she supports the growth and expansion of tribal and community-led scientific research, strengthening collaborations among tribal, academic and governmental agencies to address ongoing community concerns and questions. Her main research interests are in ecosystem health, particularly the impacts marine pollution has on ecosystem health.

Hannah-Marie Ladd Indigenous Sentinels Network, Aleut Community of St. Paul Island,
bio coming soon.

Slides, Recordings, Other Materials: Slides, links shared during the presentation, and a recording may be found after the meeting at the URL listed above.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

Title: Paradise Polluted: Strategies for Sustainable Tourism (Tropical Islands Partnering on Solutions for Marine Debris Webinar Series)
Presenter(s): Glenis Padilla Plaza, Aleli Environmental Inc.; Dora DeMaria, Reef Relief; Cynthia Welti, Surfrider Kauai
Date & Time: 27 January 2026
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm ET
Location: Webinar
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Paradise Polluted: Strategies for Sustainable Tourism

Presenter(s): Glenis Padilla Plaza (Aleli Environmental Inc.); Dora DeMaria (Reef Relief); Cynthia Welti (Surfrider Kauai)

Sponsor(s): NOAA Marine Debris ProgramSeminar Contacts: Ashley Hill (ashley.hill@noaa.gov), Mark Manuel (mark.manuel@noaa.gov), Yaritza Rivera (yaritza.rivera@noaa.gov)

Remote Access: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/5679227598215113045

Abstract: Tourism is an important part of island economies, but at times, can also pose threats to the health of ecosystem resources. Implementing strategies to relieve this burden on essential environments is critical to preserving these valuable resources. In our next webinar, Paradise Polluted: Strategies for Sustainable Tourism, speakers will discuss the successes and challenges of various approaches to shifting toward responsible tourism.

Recordings: Webinar recordings will be available on the Tropical Islands Partnering on Solutions for Marine Debris Webinar Series.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!
Title: CSI Impact Series Webinar: Compounding and Cascading Risk Reduction
Presenter(s): Nicole Naar, Social Science and Education Specialist and Integrated Knowledge and Education Team Lead; Washington Sea Grant; Tiffany Troxler, Associate Professor, Department of Earth and Environment; Director of Science, Sea Level Solutions Center, Institute of Environment, Florida International University; Laura T. Cabrera-Rivera, Environmental Health Researcher and Postdoctoral Fellow; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Date & Time: 27 January 2026
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm ET
Location: webinar
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series



Title: CSI Impact Series

Remote Access: Compounding and Cascading Risk Reduction



Presenter(s): Nicole Naar (Social Science and Education Specialist and Integrated Knowledge and Education Team Lead; Washington Sea Grant); Tiffany Troxler (Associate Professor, Department of Earth and Environment; Director of Science, Sea Level Solutions Center, Institute of Environment, Florida International University); Laura T. Cabrera-Rivera (Environmental Health Researcher and Postdoctoral Fellow; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai)



Sponsor(s): NOAA/Climate Program Office/Climate and Societal Interactions Division



Seminar Contact(s): Amanda Catron (amanda.catron@noaa.gov) and Casey Willson (casey.willson@noaa.gov)



Remote Access:
https://vimeo.com/event/5636362/4f6140a36c?fl=so&fe=fs



Accessibility: N/A



Abstract: The primary goal of the Climate and Societal Interactions (CSI) Impact Series is to highlight the ways in which research on adaptation moves successfully to action at a local and state scale. By showcasing successful case studies from across the CSI Division, we aim to demonstrate the pathways through which research can inform actions that can build more resilient communities in the face of increasing risks and natural hazards. The primary audience for this series will be state, local, tribal, and territorial government staff, including coastal managers, resilience officers, public works officials, and community planners, as well as researchers looking to produce applied and actionable science. The series will be three, one-hour events (a webinar with a panel followed by an audience question and answer session) aimed at providing examples, enabling discussion, and culminating in the identification of best practices and lessons learned that can be shared widely in order to support improved risk informed decision making.

In this webinar titled Compounding and Cascading Risk Reduction, we will explore best practices and applied action for reducing impacts from multiple weather and environmental hazards (such as flood, heat, or wildfire/smoke risks) that interact with other physical, economic and/or social factors.



Slides, Recordings, Other Materials: Recordings and information on future webinars in the CSI Impact Series will be available on the CPO website here: https://cpo.noaa.gov/webinar-series/the-climate-and-societal-interactions-csi-division-impact-series/



Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

26 January 2026

Title: California-Nevada January Drought and Climate Outlook Webinar
Presenter(s): Amanda Sheffield, Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences/NOAA's National Integrated Drought Information System; Julie Kalansky, Center for Western Weather and Water Extremes, Scripps Institution of Oceanography/University of California San Diego; Baker Perry, Nevada State Climatologist, University of Nevada Reno; Michael Anderson, California State Climatologist, California Department of Water Resources
Date & Time: 26 January 2026
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm ET
Location: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/1136959247529078880 , NOAA - HQ - Science Seminar Series
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: California-Nevada Drought and Climate Outlook Webinar

Presenter(s):
Drought and Climate Update & Outlook
Julie Kalansky and Chris Castellano | Center for Western Weather and Water Extremes, Scripps Institution of Oceanography/University of California San DiegoState Climatologist Perspectives on Current Conditions
Baker Perry | Nevada State Climatologist, University of Nevada Reno
Michael Anderson | California State Climatologist, California Department of Water Resources

Sponsor(s): NOAA's National Integrated Drought Information System

Seminar Contact(s):
Amanda Sheffield, amanda.sheffield@noaa.gov

Remote Access: Please register at https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/1136959247529078880 Location: Webinar

Abstract: The January Drought & Climate Outlook Webinar will provide climate and drought updates and the outlook as well as the state climatologist perspectives on current conditions.The California-Nevada Drought Early Warning System (CA-NV DEWS) January 2026 Drought & Climate Outlook Webinar is part of a series of regular drought and climate outlook webinars. These webinars provide stakeholders and other interested parties in the region with timely information on current drought status and impacts, as well as a preview of current and developing climatic events (i.e., El Nio and La Nia).

Slides, Recordings, Other Materials: Will be available here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmhxKH4OH8KLS83c50iH-9K-um0xQyeGG&si=YZOOJGsoHQUpcYsM

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

22 January 2026

Title: Double seminar : "Global analysis of halogenated trace gases in the UTLS: From long-lived to short-lived substances" , and "Reduced U.S. Methane Emissions during the COVID-19 Pandemic"".
Presenter(s): Markus Jesswein, Ph.D.; Sergio Ibarra Espinosa, Ph.D.; CIRES- NOAA Global Monitoring Laboratory
Date & Time: 22 January 2026
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm ET
Location: Online
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Titles:"Global analysis of halogenated trace gases in the UTLS: From long-lived to short-lived substances" by Markus Jessweinand "Reduced U.S. Methane Emissions during the COVID-19 Pandemic", by Sergio Ibarra Espinosa.

Presenter(s): Markus Jesswein, Ph.D.; and Sergio Ibarra Espinosa, Ph.D.

Sponsor(s): NOAA Global Monitoring Laboratory (https://gml.noaa.gov/about/seminars.php)

Seminar Contacts: Youmi Oh (youmi.oh@noaa.gov) Abstracts : "Global analysis of halogenated trace gases in the UTLS: From long-lived to short-lived substances" by Markus Jesswein. This talk examines the distribution of chlorinated andbrominated substances in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere (UTLS),focusing on their role in stratospheric ozone depletion. Although long-livedhalogenated compounds have declined as a result of the Montreal Protocol,short-lived substances - some natural and some anthropogenic - are unregulatedand are increasingly significant in the stratospheric halogen budget.Airborne observations were made using the GhOST instrumentaboard the HALO aircraft during the 2019 SouthTRAC campaign over the Antarctic.These measurements revealed that inorganic chlorine (Cly) reached up to 1687 19 ppt at 385 K within the polar vortex, representing ~50% of total chlorinethere, compared to ~40% in the Arctic under similar conditions. The Antarcticvortex contained ~540 ppt more Cly than the Arctic vortex in this comparison.Moving from long-lived to short-lived substances, thedistribution of key short-lived brominated substances, CHBr and CHBr, wasanalyzed using data from several international campaigns. CHBr showed clearseasonality, especially in the Northern Hemisphere, while CHBr was morevariable. Lower concentrations of both substances in the Southern Hemisphereautumn suggest less efficient troposphere-to-stratosphere transport. Modelcomparisons (TOMCAT and CAM-Chem) revealed inconsistencies, particularly in reproducingSouthern Hemisphere seasonality and bromine variability, highlighting the needfor improved modeling and more observational data, especially in the SouthernHemisphere.Lastly, investigations of how short-lived chlorinatedpollutants, specifically CHCl, are transported from the Asian Summer Monsoon(ASM) region to the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere were carried out.Using aircraft measurements from the 2023 PHILEAS campaign and FLEXPARTtransport modeling, it was found that strong convection in the East AsianSummer Monsoon (EASM) lifted polluted air to the subarctic upper troposphere,bypassing the usual ASM anticyclone pathways. Although the direct entry of thesepollutants into the stratosphere was small, such events can contribute toincreasing background levels over time.

"Reduced U.S. Methane Emissions during the COVID-19 Pandemic", by Sergio Ibarra Espinoza.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic disrupted normal human activities worldwide, and mobility restrictions resulted in reduced levels of air pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions. Here, we examine the impact of these disruptions on a potent greenhouse gas, methane (CH4), over the U.S. In this study, we quantified CH4 emissions from the contiguous U.S. between 2019 and 2021 by analyzing inverse modeling results derived from atmospheric measurements made at 35 sites across the country. Our estimates indicate emission reductions of -2.5 (standard deviation of anomalies -3.2 to -2.1 among our ensemble members) Tgy-1 CH4 in 2020 and -2.9 (-5.2 to -0.4) Tgy-1 in 2021, relative to 2019. The respective percentage change was a -4.3 (-5.1 to -3.5)% reduction in 2020 and -4.8 (-8.3 to -0.7) % in 2021, relative to 2019. Combining with process-based inventory emission datasets, we found that this reduction was primarily due to decreased fossil fuel and agricultural emissions; however, record-breaking forest fires resulted in an increase of 0.4 (0.1 to 0.8) Tgy in 2020-2019, equal to a 20 (2.9 to 46)% increase in CH4 emissions from the western U.S.

Presenter(s): Markus Jesswein, Ph.D., and Sergio Ibarra Espinosa, Ph.D.

Bio(s): Markus Jesswein, Ph.D.Markus Jesswein received his Ph.D from the Institute for Atmospheric and Environmental Sciences at Goethe University Frankfurt, Germany. During his time as a doctoral student and subsequently as a postdoctoral researcher, he participated in two aircraft measurement campaigns with the German scientific aircraft HALO and worked with a two-channel in-situ instrument (GhOST). He is also very interested in programming and modeling. This includes writing various Python tools and, most recently, working with the Lagrangian transport and dispersion model FLEXPART.
Sergio Ibarra Espinosa, Ph.D.Sergio'scareer is defined by overcoming challenges through persistent effort. Fromfunding his own education at age seven to developing complex scientificsoftware, his focus has always been forward. He is the creator of the popularVEIN emissions model and has built multiple open-source tools for greenhousegas modeling in R, Python, and Fortran. He continues to pursue ambitious goals,now designing a novel real-time emissions dashboard to unite science and policyin a single, powerful framework. https://ibarraespinosa.github.io/. In his free time, Sergio researches South America, is a dancer,musician, and cooker.
Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly email: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov withthe word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!
Title: Public-private partnerships in marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR): Structuring research collaboration for success
Presenter(s): Dr. Madison Wood, Knauss Fellow, NOAA Ocean Acidification Program; Dr. Erica Ombres, Program Manager, NOAA Ocean Acidification Program; Jennifer Stewart, Program Manager, NOAA Technology Partnerships Office; Dr. Stephen Romaniello, Director of Geochemistry, Vesta; Dr. Mallory Ringham, Head of Ocean Science, Ebb Carbon; Zack Baize, Ocean Enterprise Program Manager, NOAA IOOS; Dr. Yui Takeshita, Scientist, Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute
Date & Time: 22 January 2026
2:30 pm - 4:00 pm ET
Location: online
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Public-private partnerships in marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR): Structuring research collaboration for successNOAA Library SeminarsModerator: Dr. Madison Wood, Knauss Fellow, NOAA Ocean Acidification ProgramPanelists:
  • Dr. Erica Ombres, Program Manager, NOAA Ocean Acidification Program
  • Jennifer Stewart, Program Manager, NOAA Technology Partnerships Office
  • Dr. Stephen Romaniello, Director of Geochemistry, Vesta
  • Dr. Mallory Ringham, Head of Ocean Science, Ebb Carbon
  • Zack Baize, Ocean Enterprise Program Manager, NOAA IOOS
  • Dr. Yui Takeshita, Scientist, Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute


Sponsor(s): NOAA Ocean Acidification Program and NOAA Library

Seminar Contact(s): Library Seminars

Remote Access: https://vimeo.com/event/5646953

Accessibility: Captions are available during the live presentation and once uploaded to the NOAA Library YouTube Channel automatic captions are added. Sign language interpreting services and closed captioning are available, but need to be requested at least 5 days before the event.

Abstract: Public-private partnerships leverage expertise, resources, and funding across sectors, accelerating research and innovation to accomplish NOAA's mission. The National Oceanographic Partnership Program (NOPP) marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR) research investment managed by the NOAA Ocean Acidification Program brings together academic researchers, federal scientists, and industry to advance research in mCDR. This panel seminar will share perspectives and lessons learned from these public-private partnerships to give participants a broader understanding of the types of agreements and tools that can be used to structure effective, mutually beneficial research collaborations.

Recordings: Recordings will be shared 24 hours after the event on the NOAA Library YouTube channel.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

21 January 2026

Title: Introducing NISAR: NASA's Biggest Earth Observation Mission
Presenter(s): Franz Meyer, Professor, UAF Geophysical Institute, Chief Scientist, Alaska Satellite Facility
Date & Time: 21 January 2026
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm ET
Location: Webinar
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Introducing NISAR: NASA's Biggest Earth Observation Mission
VAWS Webinar Series

Presenter(s): Franz Meyer, Professor, UAF Geophysical Institute, Chief Scientist, Alaska Satellite Facility

Sponsor(s): NOAA/OAR/Climate Program Office, Geographic Information Network of Alaska (GINA), and the Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Preparedness (ACCAP)

Seminar Contact(s): Jessica Ramos, jaramos2@alaska.edu, Christi Buffington, cbuffington@alaska.edu

Remote Access:
Registration link: https://uaf-accap.org/event/vaws-introducing-nisar-nasas-biggest-earth-observation-mission/


Accessibility: N/A

Abstract: This VAWS presentation will introduce NISAR's unprecedented capabilities to measure Earth's surface movement with centimeter-level accuracy, while monitoring volcanoes, glaciers, sea ice, forests, and seismic zones. The webinar will also highlight Alaska's key role through UAF's Alaska Satellite Facility in downlinking, archiving, and distributing NISAR data to a global community of scientists and decision-makers.

Slides, Recordings, Other Materials: Slides will be shared after the webinar with all who register

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail:
Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!
Title: Adventurer Meets Expert: A Practical and Scientific Guide to Using Windy.com in Alaska
Presenter(s): Luc Mehl, Triple Point Training; Jonathan Chriest, Lead Meteorologist, National Weather Service Fairbanks
Date & Time: 21 January 2026
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm ET
Location: Webinar
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Adventurer Meets Expert: A Practical and Scientific Guide to Using Windy.com in Alaska


Presenter(s): Luc Mehl, Triple Point Training; Jonathan Chriest, Lead Meteorologist, National Weather Service Fairbanks

Sponsor(s): NOAA/OAR/Climate Program Office and the Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Preparedness (ACCAP)

Seminar Contact(s): Ed Plumb (ewplumb@alaska.edu) & Genie Bey (genie.bey@noaa.gov)

Remote Access: https://uaf-accap.org/event/using-windy-com-in-alaska/

Abstract: This webinar introduces practical ways to use Windy.com for planning outings in Alaska. Adventurer Luc Mehl will demonstrate how he uses the application in real backcountry scenarios, while Jonathan Chriest, a meteorologist, explains the forecasting tools and models that underpin it. Together, they'll help you understand Windy's strengths and limitations, and how to use it more effectively to stay safe outdoors.

Bio(s): Luc Mehl is an Alaska-based adventurer and outdoor educator who has traveled thousands of miles across the state by ski, packraft, bike, foot, and ice skates. Through his company, Triple Point Training, Luc specializes in teaching safe and effective backcountry travel, drawing on his background in environmental data science, wilderness risk management, and work as an ice, swiftwater, and avalanche rescue instructor. Luc has earned two national book awards as well as national recognition for public service and outreach.

Jonathan Chriest works as a Lead Meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Fairbanks. As an active Alaskan adventurer, Jonathan is passionate about helping organizations and individuals use weather and water information to make safer and more effective decisions from the tarmac, to the backcountry, to the fireline where he also works as an Incident Meteorologist. Jonathan holds a Master's of Science in Atmospheric Sciences from the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

Slides, Recordings, Other Materials: Slides, links shared during the presentation, and a recording may be found after the meeting at the URL listed above.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

Title: Using Long-term Satellite Ocean Color Records for Detecting Persistent Oceanic Trends
Presenter(s): Myung-Sook Park, Korea Institute of Ocean Science & Technology
Date & Time: 21 January 2026
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm ET
Location: Webinar
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Using Long-term Satellite Ocean Color Records for Detecting Persistent Oceanic Trends

Presenter(s): Myung-Sook Park, Korea Institute of Ocean Science & Technology (KIOST)

Sponsor(s): NOAA Ocean Color Coordinating Group (NOCCG)

Remote Access: https://meet.google.com/hnd-zams-bgo

Seminar Contact(s): Cara.Wilson@NOAA.gov

Abstract: Phytoplankton play a central role in marine biogeochemical processes and ocean ecosystems, and satellite ocean color observations provide a powerful means of monitoring their variability through changes in optical properties of seawater. However, interpreting long-term signals from ocean color data remains challenging due to the strong influence of natural variability and measurement uncertainties. In this seminar, we introduce an analysis framework that integrates long-term environmental records with multi-decadal satellite ocean color observations to better separate persistent signals from dominant modes of natural variability. By combining complementary datasets and applying signal-separation techniques, this approach enables a clearer examination of long-term changes in ocean optical properties without relying on short-term fluctuations.We discuss how variations in light absorption and scattering"linked to changes in phytoplankton and dissolved constituents"can be systematically examined using sustained satellite observations. Rather than focusing on specific regional outcomes, the emphasis of this seminar is on the methodological approach, data consistency, and the implications for long-term monitoring. This work highlights the importance of continuous, well-calibrated satellite ocean color records as an essential component of operational ocean monitoring systems and their applications to ecosystem and fisheries-relevant studies.Speaker

Bio(s): Myung-Sook (Jina) Park is a Principal Research Scientist at the Korea Institute of Ocean Science & Technology (KIOST), where she works at the Korea Ocean Satellite Center on satellite ocean color remote sensing. Her research focuses on radiometric calibration, chlorophyll-a algorithm development for GOCI-II, and the use of long-term ocean color data to detect climate-driven changes in marine ecosystems and ocean"atmosphere interactions. Trained in atmospheric science, she now conducts integrated and interdisciplinary research that bridges atmospheric processes and long-term ocean color applications. She received her Ph.D. in Atmospheric Science from the School of Earth and Environmental Sciences at Seoul National University in 2009 and was a Visiting Research Scientist at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center from 2022 to 2023, collaborating with NASA and NOAA scientists on climate-related ocean color studies. Jina enjoys practicing yoga, playing the piano, and collaborating with researchers from around the world.

Slides, Recordings, Other Materials: Slides can be found at this link about 24 hours after the live webinar: https://www.star.nesdis.noaa.gov/star/PastSeminars_NOCCG.php

Subscribe to the One NOAA Science Seminar weekly email: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. https://www.star.nesdis.noaa.gov/star/OneNOAASeminars.php. For more information visit: https://www.star.nesdis.noaa.gov/star/NOAAScienceSeminars.php

Title: [CANCELED] eDNA as a tool to assess biodiversity in sediment samples associated with oyster restoration in the Hampton River
Presenter(s): Jahlen Shang Pinelo, Hampton University, NOAA LMRCSC Master's Fellow
Date & Time: 21 January 2026
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm ET
Location: TBD
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series
Title: eDNA as a tool to assess biodiversity in sediment samples associated with oyster restoration in the Hampton River

NOAA Library Seminar

Presenter(s): Jahlen Shang Pinelo, Hampton University, NOAA LMRCSC Master's Fellow (She/her)

Sponsor(s): NOAA 'Omics and NOAA Library

Seminar Contact(s): Nicole Miller (nicole.miller@noaa.gov) and library.seminars@noaa.gov

Remote Access: TBD

Abstract: Oysters are economically important in the Chesapeake Bay and Hampton River that has naturally occurring oyster reefs and artificial oyster reefs set to be planted. Environmental DNA (eDNA) is used to investigate the biodiversity associated with 3 sites:a natural oyster reef, a site for reef restoration planting, and a control area with no history of oyster reefs.Sediment samples will be collected seasonally to assess the changes in biodiversity before, during and after the planting of the oyster reefs.The 16S rRNA marker gene will be used to capture a comprehensive view of the microbial communities over a year's time span.This project will produce baseline microbial and eukaryotic biodiversity data for the Hampton River, provide insights on seasonal biodiversity, and highlight the value of oyster restoration efforts.This work can help inform NOAA fisheries through the tracking and monitoring of important fisheries and critical habitat for ecologically and commercially valuable species.

Keywords: environmentalDNA, Hampton River, Fisheries Monitoring

Accessibility: Captions are available during the live presentation and once uploaded to the NOAA Central Library YouTube Channel automatic captions are added. Sign language interpreting services and closed captioning are available, but need to be requested at least 5 days before the event.

Recordings: Recordings will be shared 24 hours after the event on the NOAA Library YouTube channel.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!
Title: Detection and relative quantification of Dungeness crab (Metacarcinus magister) from environmental DNA (eDNA) samples using quantitative PCR
Presenter(s): Dwan Jackson, NOAA CCME-II Graduate Scholar, Jackson State University
Date & Time: 21 January 2026
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm ET
Location: TBD
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series
Title: Detection and relative quantification of Dungeness crab (Metacarcinus magister) from environmental DNA (eDNA) samples using quantitative PCR

NOAA Library Seminar

Presenter(s): Dwan Jackson, NOAA CCME-II Graduate Scholar, Jackson State University

Sponsor(s): NOAA 'Omics and NOAA Library

Seminar Contact(s): Nicole Miller (nicole.miller@noaa.gov) and library.seminars@noaa.gov

Remote Access: https://vimeo.com/event/5694352

Abstract: Dungeness crab, is critical to the fisheries on the West Coast. Accurate habitat use, range, and abundance estimates are vital for management, however, current monitoring efforts rely on fishery-dependent surveys with self-reported catch data, supplemented by isolated, labor-intensive fishery-independent surveys focused upon the adult life stage. Here we propose the use of a probe-based quantitative PCR assay for detecting and estimating the relative abundance of M. magister larvae from eDNA samples. Mitochondrial genomes, generated from M. magister and other closely related cancrid species, were used (OME) to generate candidate assays targeting M. magister by the Ocean Molecular Ecology Group at NOAA's Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory (PMEL). These candidate assays will be validated and tested using synthetic DNA, or gBlocks, to determine assay sensitivity for M. magister.

Keywords: Omics, qPCR assay, eDNA

Accessibility: Captions are available during the live presentation and once uploaded to the NOAA Central Library YouTube Channel automatic captions are added. Sign language interpreting services and closed captioning are available, but need to be requested at least 5 days before the event.

Recordings: Recordings will be shared 24 hours after the event on the NOAA Library YouTube channel.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!
Title: Detection and relative quantification of Dungeness crab (Metacarcinus magister) from environmental DNA (eDNA) samples using quantitative PCR
Presenter(s): Dwan Jackson, NOAA CCME-II Graduate Scholar, Jackson State University
Date & Time: 21 January 2026
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm ET
Location: TBD
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series
Title: Detection and relative quantification of Dungeness crab (Metacarcinus magister) from environmental DNA (eDNA) samples using quantitative PCR

NOAA Library Seminar

Presenter(s): Dwan Jackson, NOAA CCME-II Graduate Scholar, Jackson State University

Sponsor(s): NOAA 'Omics and NOAA Library

Seminar Contact(s): Nicole Miller (nicole.miller@noaa.gov) and library.seminars@noaa.gov

Remote Access: https://vimeo.com/event/5694352

Abstract: Dungeness crab, is critical to the fisheries on the West Coast. Accurate habitat use, range, and abundance estimates are vital for management, however, current monitoring efforts rely on fishery-dependent surveys with self-reported catch data, supplemented by isolated, labor-intensive fishery-independent surveys focused upon the adult life stage. Here we propose the use of a probe-based quantitative PCR assay for detecting and estimating the relative abundance of M. magister larvae from eDNA samples. Mitochondrial genomes, generated from M. magister and other closely related cancrid species, were used (OME) to generate candidate assays targeting M. magister by the Ocean Molecular Ecology Group at NOAA's Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory (PMEL). These candidate assays will be validated and tested using synthetic DNA, or gBlocks, to determine assay sensitivity for M. magister.

Keywords: Omics, qPCR assay, eDNA

Accessibility: Captions are available during the live presentation and once uploaded to the NOAA Central Library YouTube Channel automatic captions are added. Sign language interpreting services and closed captioning are available, but need to be requested at least 5 days before the event.

Recordings: Recordings will be shared 24 hours after the event on the NOAA Library YouTube channel.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!
Title: Detection and relative quantification of Dungeness crab (Metacarcinus magister) from environmental DNA (eDNA) samples using quantitative PCR
Presenter(s): Dwan Jackson, NOAA CCME-II Graduate Scholar, Jackson State University
Date & Time: 21 January 2026
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm ET
Location: TBD
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series
Title: Detection and relative quantification of Dungeness crab (Metacarcinus magister) from environmental DNA (eDNA) samples using quantitative PCR

NOAA Library Seminar

Presenter(s): Dwan Jackson, NOAA CCME-II Graduate Scholar, Jackson State University

Sponsor(s): NOAA 'Omics and NOAA Library

Seminar Contact(s): Nicole Miller (nicole.miller@noaa.gov) and library.seminars@noaa.gov

Remote Access: https://vimeo.com/event/5694352

Abstract: Dungeness crab, is critical to the fisheries on the West Coast. Accurate habitat use, range, and abundance estimates are vital for management, however, current monitoring efforts rely on fishery-dependent surveys with self-reported catch data, supplemented by isolated, labor-intensive fishery-independent surveys focused upon the adult life stage. Here we propose the use of a probe-based quantitative PCR assay for detecting and estimating the relative abundance of M. magister larvae from eDNA samples. Mitochondrial genomes, generated from M. magister and other closely related cancrid species, were used (OME) to generate candidate assays targeting M. magister by the Ocean Molecular Ecology Group at NOAA's Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory (PMEL). These candidate assays will be validated and tested using synthetic DNA, or gBlocks, to determine assay sensitivity for M. magister.

Keywords: Omics, qPCR assay, eDNA

Accessibility: Captions are available during the live presentation and once uploaded to the NOAA Central Library YouTube Channel automatic captions are added. Sign language interpreting services and closed captioning are available, but need to be requested at least 5 days before the event.

Recordings: Recordings will be shared 24 hours after the event on the NOAA Library YouTube channel.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!
Title: Detection and relative quantification of Dungeness crab (Metacarcinus magister) from environmental DNA (eDNA) samples using quantitative PCR
Presenter(s): Dwan Jackson, NOAA CCME-II Graduate Scholar, Jackson State University
Date & Time: 21 January 2026
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm ET
Location: TBD
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series
Title: Detection and relative quantification of Dungeness crab (Metacarcinus magister) from environmental DNA (eDNA) samples using quantitative PCR

NOAA Library Seminar

Presenter(s): Dwan Jackson, NOAA CCME-II Graduate Scholar, Jackson State University

Sponsor(s): NOAA 'Omics and NOAA Library

Seminar Contact(s): Nicole Miller (nicole.miller@noaa.gov) and library.seminars@noaa.gov

Remote Access: https://vimeo.com/event/5694352

Abstract: Dungeness crab, is critical to the fisheries on the West Coast. Accurate habitat use, range, and abundance estimates are vital for management, however, current monitoring efforts rely on fishery-dependent surveys with self-reported catch data, supplemented by isolated, labor-intensive fishery-independent surveys focused upon the adult life stage. Here we propose the use of a probe-based quantitative PCR assay for detecting and estimating the relative abundance of M. magister larvae from eDNA samples. Mitochondrial genomes, generated from M. magister and other closely related cancrid species, were used (OME) to generate candidate assays targeting M. magister by the Ocean Molecular Ecology Group at NOAA's Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory (PMEL). These candidate assays will be validated and tested using synthetic DNA, or gBlocks, to determine assay sensitivity for M. magister.

Keywords: Omics, qPCR assay, eDNA

Accessibility: Captions are available during the live presentation and once uploaded to the NOAA Central Library YouTube Channel automatic captions are added. Sign language interpreting services and closed captioning are available, but need to be requested at least 5 days before the event.

Recordings: Recordings will be shared 24 hours after the event on the NOAA Library YouTube channel.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!
Title: Utilizing Wintertime CoCoRaHS Data to Improve NWS Forecasts and Services
Presenter(s): Ketzel Levens, Meteorologist at NWS Duluth and Local CoCoRaHS Coordinator for NE MN and NW WI
Date & Time: 21 January 2026
11:00 am - 12:00 pm ET
Location: online
Description:



Title: Utilizing Wintertime CoCoRaHS Data to Improve NWS Forecasts and ServicesNOAA Library Seminars

Presenter(s): Ketzel Levens, Meteorologist at NWS Duluth and also Local CoCoRaHS Coordinator for NE MN and NW WI

Sponsor(s): NOAA Library and NOAA Education

Seminar Contact(s): library.seminars@noaa.gov

Remote Access: https://vimeo.com/event/5649556

Accessibility: Captions are available during the live presentation and once uploaded to the NOAA Library YouTube Channel automatic captions are added. Sign language interpreting services and closed captioning are available, but need to be requested at least 5 days before the event.

Abstract: Ketzel Levens, Local CoCoRaHS Coordinator for NE MN and NW WI, will present on the use of CoCoRaHS citizen science data usage in operational meteorology by the National Weather Service office in Duluth, MN. She will go over the basics of the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail, and Snow Network (CoCoRaHS), the work done by NWS Duluth to expand and improve winter time observations, how the local NWS Duluth office uses CoCoRaHS observations everyday for their forecasts and warning operations, how the observations get integrated into longer term spring flood outlooks and drought monitoring, and what you can do if you want to get involved.

Recordings: Recordings will be shared 24 hours after the event on the NOAA Library YouTube channel.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

20 January 2026

Title: Building a better model? Performance diagnostics for stock assessment models incorporating environmental indicators of recruitment
Presenter(s): Robert Wildermuth, Fish Biologist, Fisheries Resources Division, Southwest Fisheries Science Center, NOAA Fisheries. Alexander Jensen, Research Fish Biologist, Fisheries Resources Division, Southwest Fisheries Science Center, NOAA Fisheries.
Date & Time: 20 January 2026
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm ET
Location: Online
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series



Title: Building a better model? Performance diagnostics for stock assessment models incorporating environmental indicators of recruitment

NOAA Library Seminars



Presenter(s): Robert Wildermuth, Fish Biologist, Fisheries Resources Division, Southwest Fisheries Science Center, NOAA Fisheries. Alexander Jensen, Research Fish Biologist, Fisheries Resources Division, Southwest Fisheries Science Center, NOAA Fisheries.



Sponsor(s): NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) and NOAA Library



Seminar Contact(s): Dr. Bai Li (bai.li@noaa.gov) and Library Seminars



Remote Access: https://vimeo.com/event/5387702



Accessibility: Captions are available during the live presentation and once uploaded to the NOAA Library YouTube Channel automatic captions are added. Sign language interpreting services and closed captioning are available, but need to be requested at least 5 days before the event.



Abstract: Incorporating environmental indicators into stock assessments has been proposed as a means of advancing ecosystem-based fisheries management. We present and discuss a workflow for developing an environmental indicator of recruitment, integrating the indicator into an assessment, and evaluating the effect of the indicator on model performance, with Pacific sardine (Sardinops sagax) as the focal species. As the stated goal of including environmental information is to produce an improved assessment model for management, we highlight model diagnostics and simulation testing methods that specifically capture forecasting and management performance.



Recordings: Recordings will be shared 24 hours after the event on the NOAA Library YouTube channel.



Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

Title: Recent ADCIRC Developments at Regional and Local Scales
Presenter(s): Rick Luettich, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Date & Time: 20 January 2026
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm ET
Location: TBD
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Recent ADCIRC Developments at Regional and Local Scales

Presenter(s): Rick Luettich (University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill)

Sponsor(s): NOAACoastal Ocean Modeling Seminars: https://coastaloceanmodels.noaa.gov/seminar/

SeminarContact: Alexander.Kurapov@noaa.gov

Remoteaccess: Connect with Google Meet meet.google.com/kti-ktaw-nes,
PhoneNumbers (US)+1414-856-5982 PIN: 248 179#

Abstract: To complement last week's global scale ADCIRC presentation, I'll provide a summary of recent advances by the ADCIRC community that are at regional and local scales. Specific topics I'll discuss include initial GPU implementation (all scales), wave-current interaction, the efficient representation of complex river/stream/channel networks, compound flooding, the Coastal Ocean ReAnalysis project, and the coastal impacts from hurricanes.
Slides, Recordings, OtherMaterials: TBDSubscribe to the NOAA ScienceSeminar Series weekly email: Sendan e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body.Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions andideas!

16 January 2026

Title: January NWS Alaska Climate Outlook Briefing
Presenter(s): Rick Thoman, Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Preparedness
Date & Time: 16 January 2026
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm ET
Location: Webinar
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: January NWS Alaska Climate Outlook Briefing


Presenter(s): Rick Thoman, Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Preparedness

Sponsor(s): NOAA/OAR/Climate Program Office and the Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Preparedness (ACCAP)

Seminar Contact(s): Ed Plumb (ewplumb@alaska.edu) & Genie Bey (genie.bey@noaa.gov)

Remote Access: https://uaf-accap.org/event/jan2026-alaska-climate-outlook/

Abstract: During this month's Climate Outlook Briefing, we will review recent and current climate conditions around Alaska, discuss forecasting tools, and finish up with the Climate Prediction Center's forecast for February and the remainder late winter season. Join the gathering online to learn what's happened and what may be in store with Alaska's seasonal climate.

Bio(s): Rick Thoman is the ACCAP Alaska Climate Specialist and has many years of experience producing reliable Alaska climate information and graphics describing Alaska's changing environment. His work spans the bridge between climate modeling, Alaska communities, and the media.

Slides, Recordings, Other Materials: Slides, links shared during the presentation, and a recording may be found after the meeting at the URL listed above.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

15 January 2026

Title: NOAA Fire Research from Conditions to Impacts: Improving wildfire risk tools
Presenter(s): Dan Ferguson, University of Arizona; Michael Crimmins, University of Arizona; Tamara Wall, Desert Research Institute; Margaret Ideker, National Weather Service; Scott Stearns, National Weather Service
Date & Time: 15 January 2026
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm ET
Location: Webinar
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: NOAA Fire Research from Conditions to Impacts: Improving wildfire risk tools

Presenter(s): Dan Ferguson and Michael Crimmins (University of Arizona); Tamara Wall (Desert Research Institute), Margaret Ideker (National Weather Service), Scott Stearns (National Weather Service)

Sponsor(s): NOAA Climate Program Office (CPO) and NOAA's Fire Observation, Research, and Services Team (FOReST) Team

Seminar Contact(s): Clara Deck clara.deck@noaa.gov

Remote Access: https://www.google.com/url?q=https://vimeo.com/event/5628912/ff683d9fe7&sa=D&source=calendar&ust=1768935708312948&usg=AOvVaw1bT-x6B7l0Z2BeB39q2bzA

Abstract: This seminar series features cutting-edge research from NOAA scientists and NOAA-supported investigators, showcasing NOAA and partner fire research activities and their impact on science and services.In this session, researchers supported by CPO will showcase the creation of and advancements in tools designed to improve wildfire risk assessment and communication. This will include the evolution of the Burn Period Tracker, which helps fire managers to quickly access specific local humidity information used to assess risk, and efforts to enhance the effectiveness of the Red Flag Warning System, a National Weather Service tool for alerting the fire management community to real-time and imminent risk levels.

Recordings: Recordings will be shared after the webinar to the CPO website.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

14 January 2026

Title: Advancing Innovative Research: Silurian AI
Presenter(s): Stelios Flampouris, Silurian AI
Date & Time: 14 January 2026
3:30 pm - 4:00 pm ET
Location: TBD
Description:



Title: Advancing Innovative Research: Silurian AIAdvancing Innovative Research (AIR) Seminar Series

Presenter(s): Stelios Flampouris, Silurian AI

Sponsor(s): NOAA Office of Research, Transition, and Application (ORTA)Seminar Contacts: Alexander Bukvich, Transition Coordinator, ORTA (alexander.bukvich@noaa.gov); Katie Geddes, Technical Communications Specialist, ORTA (katie.geddes@noaa.gov)

Remote Access: https://meet.google.com/ynx-zgvx-ppf

Abstract: The Advancing Innovative Research (AIR) Seminar Series is an open seminar that provides an opportunity to showcase cutting-edge research and highlight innovations from across NOAA, as well as providing a forum for connecting stakeholders and Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) awardees. The goal is to foster a setting promoting collaboration, connection to subject matter experts, and sharing lessons learned. Each monthly seminar will include two 2-minute presentations plus Q&A. Open to all NOAA personnel, stakeholders, and partners, this series is provided to benefit experienced users and potential newcomers alike.Call for

Presenter(s): If interested in presenting at one of the AIR seminars, please send an email to: oar.orta@noaa.gov, with the presenter's name, office/company, and presentation title. Schedule and more information available at: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/19b_LjZuWuLvFCC_VwiVteUoLB50JIk3nmoU9FYv2RLQ/edit?gid=2007254036#gid=2007254036.

Slides, Recordings, Other Materials: The schedule of AIR Seminar Series speakers, as well as past slide decks (if publicly available), can be found here.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an email to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!
Title: Habitat Heartbeats: Listening to What Oysters and Mussels Can Tell Us about Southern California Estuaries
Presenter(s): Luke Miller, San Diego State University, luke.miller@sdsu.edu; Kristen Goodrich, Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve, kgoodrich@trnerr.org
Date & Time: 14 January 2026
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm ET
Location: Remote Access Only
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Date & Time: 14 January 2026, 3 - 4 pm ET



Title: Habitat Heartbeats: Listening to What Oysters and Mussels Can Tell Us about Southern California Estuaries



Presenter(s):

  • Luke Miller, San Diego State University

  • Kristen Goodrich, Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve



Sponsor(s): This webinar is sponsored by the NERRS Science Collaborative



Seminar Contact(s): Doug George (douglas.george@noaa.gov) or Nick Soberal (nsoberal@umich.edu)



Remote Access: https://umich.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_c2ajZAyBSTewP3k0SnIKzQ

Abstract
Southern California's estuaries can experience large swings in water quality due to events like freshwater inflow, sewage spills, and estuary mouth closures. The Tijuana River NERR (TRNERR) monitors several estuaries in San Diego County to better understand how biological communities respond to changes in water quality. Through an iterative process with TRNERR and other users, this project team co-developed a biosensor monitoring system that uses shellfish (oysters and mussels) as biosentinels. Alongside state and local land managers and other wetland and aquaculture professionals, the team designed an open-source electronic sensor that attaches to shellfish and monitors gaping behavior and heart rate. These metrics that can be used as indicators of physiological stress in response to environmental changes.

In this webinar, the project team will describe their collaborative process within the team and with additional potential end users. Potential users included resource managers, aquaculture practitioners, and research biologists working with these bivalves in other settings. The team will describe the basic components of the biosensor equipment and approaches used in the field and lab for gathering and analyzing data. Data from the focal estuaries will be used to illustrate individual and group responses of the biosentinel bivalves to rapidly-shifting water quality conditions.



Bio(s): Please visit here for more information about the webinar.

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Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

Title: Advancing Innovative Research: Mythos Autonomy for Hydrographic Survey
Presenter(s): Dylan Sparks, Mythos AI
Date & Time: 14 January 2026
3:00 pm - 3:30 pm ET
Location: TBD
Description:



Title: Advancing Innovative Research: Mythos AI - Live Demo aboard MythosAI Autonomous VesselAdvancing Innovative Research (AIR) Seminar Series

Presenter(s): Dylan Sparks, Mythos AI

Sponsor(s): NOAA Office of Research, Transition, and Application (ORTA)Seminar Contacts: Alexander Bukvich, Transition Coordinator, ORTA (alexander.bukvich@noaa.gov); Katie Geddes, Technical Communications Specialist, ORTA (katie.geddes@noaa.gov)

Remote Access: https://meet.google.com/ynx-zgvx-ppf

Abstract: The Advancing Innovative Research (AIR) Seminar Series is an open seminar that provides an opportunity to showcase cutting-edge research and highlight innovations from across NOAA, as well as providing a forum for connecting stakeholders and Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) awardees. The goal is to foster a setting promoting collaboration, connection to subject matter experts, and sharing lessons learned. Each monthly seminar will include two 2-minute presentations plus Q&A. Open to all NOAA personnel, stakeholders, and partners, this series is provided to benefit experienced users and potential newcomers alike.Call for

Presenter(s): If interested in presenting at one of the AIR seminars, please send an email to: oar.orta@noaa.gov, with the presenter's name, office/company, and presentation title. Schedule and more information available at: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/19b_LjZuWuLvFCC_VwiVteUoLB50JIk3nmoU9FYv2RLQ/edit?gid=2007254036#gid=2007254036.

Slides, Recordings, Other Materials: The schedule of AIR Seminar Series speakers, as well as past slide decks (if publicly available), can be found here.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an email to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

13 January 2026

Title: Whales, Wonder, and the Santa Barbara Channel: How Whale Heritage Areas Inspire Conservation and Care
Presenter(s): Holly Lohuis, Marine biologist, naturalist and Co-Director of the Santa Barbara Channel Whale Heritage Area
Date & Time: 13 January 2026
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm ET
Location: Remote Access Only
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Whales, Wonder, and the Santa Barbara Channel: How Whale Heritage Areas Inspire Conservation and CareSeries: National Marine Sanctuaries Webinar Series

Presenter(s): Holly Lohuis, Marine biologist, naturalist and Co-Director of the Santa Barbara Channel Whale Heritage AreaRegister: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/802884732754132054

Sponsor(s): NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries

Seminar Contact(s): Claire.Fackler@noaa.gov

Abstract: Join marine biologist, naturalist, and Co-Director of the Santa Barbara Channel Whale Heritage Area, Holly Lohuis, as she shares stories of the diversity of whales that feed and travel through the Santa Barbara Channel and the waters of the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. Through the lens of the Whale Heritage Area designation, discover how responsible tourism, community engagement, and education play a vital role in protecting whales and fostering a deeper connection to our ocean.

Accessibility: English captions will be provided for the recording.Recording: The presentation will be recorded; once captioned it will be hosted on the archived webpage: https://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/education/teachers/webinar-series-archives.html.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail:
Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!
Title: NOAA Data or Information Resource Spotlights
Presenter(s): Meredith Muth, Senior Program Manager, National Integrated Drought Information System or NIDIS; Kelsey Eigsti, Digital Communications Coordinator, Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences or CIRES, NIDIS; Jessi James-Barry, Gulf Coast Regional Coordinator, NOAA Marine Debris Program, Office of Response & Restoration; Ashley Hill, Florida Regional Coordinator, NOAA Marine Debris Program, Office of Response & Restoration; Analise Keeney, Coastal Hazards Oceanographer, NOAA's Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services
Date & Time: 13 January 2026
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm ET
Location: Online
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: NOAA Data or Information Resource Spotlights
NOAA Gulf of America Forum Webinar Series

Presenter(s): Meredith Muth, Senior Program Manager, National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS); Kelsey Eigsti, Digital Communications Coordinator, Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES), NIDIS; Jessi James-Barry, Gulf Coast Regional Coordinator, NOAA Marine Debris Program, Office of Response & Restoration; Ashley Hill, Florida Regional Coordinator, NOAA Marine Debris Program, Office of Response & Restoration; Analise Keeney, Coastal Hazards Oceanographer, NOAA's Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services

Sponsor(s): NOAA's Gulf of America Regional Collaboration Team, a part of NOAA's Regional Collaboration Network

Seminar Contact(s): Kristen Laursen, Kristen.R.Laursen@noaa.gov , NOAA Fisheries and Regional Collaboration Network

Remote Access: Please register at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/77721630570506333Note: This webinar will be recorded. Please do not share any Personal or Business Identifiable Information (PII or BII) during the webinar.

Abstract: The NOAA Gulf of America Forum Webinar Series is excited to highlight three online data or information resources valuable for the region. Speakers will briefly share about each resource, highlighting some of the fascinating and useful information you can find in them. Topics and speakers include:

- Mississippi River Basin Drought and Water Dashboard: Meredith Muth, Senior Program Manager, National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS) and Kelsey Eigsti, Digital Communications Coordinator, Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES), NIDIS

- Marine Debris Monitoring Assessment Protocol: Jessi James-Barry, Gulf Coast Regional Coordinator, NOAA Marine Debris Program and Ashley Hill, Florida Regional Coordinator, NOAA Marine Debris Program, Office of Response & Restoration

- Coastal Ocean Reanalysis (CORA): Analise Keeney, Coastal Hazards Oceanographer, NOAA's Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services (CO-OPS)


Slides, Recordings, Other Materials: This webinar will be recorded and shared online. Please contact Kristen.R.Laursen@noaa.gov for the recording and/or PDF of this webinar.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

8 January 2026

Title: A Web-Based Deep Learning Tool for Automated Coral Reef Halo Monitoring (RECORDED)
Presenter(s): Elizabeth Madin, HIMB, University of Hawai'i at Manoa
Date & Time: 8 January 2026
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm ET
Location: TBD
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: A Web-Based Deep Learning Tool for Automated Coral Reef Halo Monitoring

Presenter(s): Elizabeth Madin, PhD (Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology, University of Hawaii at Mnoa) and Simone Franceschini, PhD (Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology)

Sponsor(s): NOAA Coral Reef Conservation Program

Seminar Contact(s): Caroline Donovan, caroline.donovan@noaa.gov

Remote Access: Video call link: https://meet.google.com/pgn-asvi-kgp, Or dial: (US) +1 402-921-2224 PIN: 488 546 477#

Accessibility: Closed captioning available through Google Meet platform

Abstract: Coral reef halos, distinct sand rings surrounding patch reefs, offer a powerful ecological signal that can provide insight into predator presence, herbivore behavior, and overall reef health. In this talk, we will introduce our new web-based platform built in Python, which leverages deep learning to detect and quantify halo patterns from high-resolution satellite imagery automatically. Our goal is to demonstrate how AI-enabled detection can complement traditional survey methods, reduce manual interpretation time, and reveal spatial or temporal changes that might otherwise go unnoticed. The presentation will highlight opportunities for collaborative use of the platform, pathways for operational integration into NOAA programs, and upcoming features aimed at expanding accessibility for managers, researchers, and conservation partners.

Recordings: Seminar recording will be available afterward, as requested.

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Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!
Title: From Planetary-Scale to Eddy-Scale: Advances from the NOAA Research Global-Nest Initiative
Presenter(s): Lucas Harris PhD, NOAA-GFDL & Lingjiong Zhou (Princeton-CIMES /NOAA-GFDL Associate
Date & Time: 8 January 2026
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm ET
Location: Webinar
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: From Planetary-Scale to Eddy-Scale: Advances from the NOAA Research Global-Nest Initiative

Presenter(s): Dr. Lucas Harris, NOAA-GFDL & Lingjiong Zhou (Princeton-CIMES /NOAA-GFDL Associate)

Sponsor(s): NOAA EPIC Program Office, Unified Forecast System (UFS)

Seminar Contact(s): Morina Royer, morina.royer@noaa.govWebinar Link//MeetingID/Passcode:https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/1067813154531853920

Abstract: In this webinar, achievements from the NOAA Research Global-Nest Initiative, a Congressionally-mandated project to develop new kilometer-scale global-nested and global-storm resolving models, will be presented. The principal goal of this Initiative was to improve prediction and understanding of extreme weather events, their impacts, and their role in the broader earth system by enhancing capabilities in the GFDL System for High-resolution prediction on Earth-to-Local Domains (SHiELD), an FV3-based global weather-to-subseasonal prediction system. Beyond the delivered primary accomplishments of the first phase, the Initiative is already working to push into the new areas.

The AI-SHiELD emulator, and the performance-portable Pace implementation in Python, have shown the value of new technologies. New frontiers including compound drought-heat wave prediction, sub-kilometer extremes such as hurricane gusts and tornado vortices, and subseasonal prediction of impactful weather events, are also being explored.

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Title: Evaluation of Wind Profile and Boundary Layer Height from an Airborne Doppler Lidar for Atmospheric Dynamics, Weather and Air Quality
Presenter(s): Kevin Herrera, Graduate Student, NOAA/Office of Education, Educational Partnership Program (EPP), Cooperative Science Center for Earth System Science and Remote Sensing Technologies II
Date & Time: 8 January 2026
1:00 pm - 1:30 pm ET
Location: Webinar
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Evaluation of Wind Profile and Boundary Layer Height from anAirborne Doppler Lidar for Atmospheric Dynamics, Weather and Air Quality

Presenter(s): Kevin Herrera, Graduate Student, NOAA Office of Education, Educational Partnership Program (EPP), NOAA Cooperative Science Center (CSC) for Earth System Science and Remote Sensing Technologies (CESSRST-II), Cohort 1 Fellow at Hampton University

Sponsor(s): NOAA EPP/MSI Cooperative Science Centers

Seminar Contact(s): Audrey.Trotman@noaa.gov and oed.epp10@noaa.gov

Remote Access: Video call link: https://meet.google.com/vqj-aqdf-afz Or dial: (US) +1 432-955-6381 PIN: 151 314 945#More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/vqj-aqdf-afz?pin=8048570916411

Accessibility: Google Meet closed captioning available.

Abstract: The planetary boundary layer (PBL) regulates the exchange of momentum, heat, moisture, and pollutants between the Earth's surface and the free atmosphere, making accurate identification of the PBL height critical for weather forecasting, air quality assessment, and climate studies. This project was motivated by the need to better understand both the physical basis and practical limitations of PBLH retrievals derived from Doppler wind lidar. Using airborne observations from the2023 Coastal Urban Plume Dynamics Study (CUPiDS) over the New York City region and ground-based measurements from the Pick-Up based Mobile Atmospheric Sounder(PUMAS) collected during the 2024 Airborne Methane Mass Balance Emissions in Colorado (AMMBEC) campaign along the Colorado Front Range, this study examined boundary-layer structure across urban, coastal, and continental environments. The analysis applied the Haar wavelet covariance method to range-corrected lidar intensity as a gradient-based approach for identifying the PBL top, alongside variance-based diagnostics, including vertical velocity variance and velocity azimuth display fit variance to characterize turbulence and flow heterogeneity. Results show that while Haar-based methods can reliably identify PBL transitions under ideal conditions, their performance degrades in the presence of clouds and multi-layered aerosol structure. Variance-based products provide valuable complementary context, with fit variance being a promising, but underexplored diagnostic that qualitatively echoes established vertical velocity variance behavior. These findings contribute to improved understanding of foundational PBL height retrieval techniques and support the development of more robust approaches relevant to NOAA OAR's role in developing and validating new measurement strategies and improving interpretation of complex observations for purposes of weather, air quality, and climate.The results presented are from the NOAA EPP/MSI CSC NERTO graduate internship project conducted under the mentorship of Brian Carroll and Steven Brown, Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research, Chemical Sciences Laboratory.

Bio(s): Kevin Herrera is a NOAA Cooperative Science Center Fellow for the Center for Earth System Science and Remote Sensing Technologies (CESSRST-II). He is currently a Master's candidate at Hampton University. Kevin Herrera is a Cohort 1 Graduate Fellow, supported in the NOAA Cooperative Science Center for Earth System Sciences and Remote Sensing Technologies (CESSRST-II) award. Kevin is currently pursuing a M.S. in Atmospheric Science at Hampton University. This NERTO experience aligns with the NOAA Cooperative Science Center in CESSRST-II's goal to observe, monitor, and predict atmospheric events, including those related to weather and air quality. This project addressed the research question: How are Doppler wind lidar retrievals of planetary boundary layer height done, and what new avenues show promise for improving existing retrievals? The work provides value to the scientific community and program stakeholders by enhancing the interpretation and application of Doppler wind lidar observations for boundary layer analysis in both research and applied contexts. Through this internship, the student deepened their understanding of NOAA mission areas and gained enhanced skills in developing workflows for data processing in MATLAB, field experience in the context of an airborne platform, and interacting with professional scientists in a working environment.Kevin Herrera, CESSRST-II Fellow, previously earned a B.A. in Astronomy at the University of Florida. His current research focuses on retrievals of aerosol optical properties using a combination of NASA AERONET and ceilometer, as well as supplementary observational data where appropriate. They are passionate about sharing scientific knowledge to enrich others' lives by connecting people to things they might not otherwise be aware of. Kevin Herrera is committed to engaging in advancing NOAA's mission through research, collaboration, and innovation.For more information access the webpage for the Cooperative Science Centers, https://www.noaa.gov/office-education/epp-msi/csc/20212022-awards andNERTO, www.noaa.gov/eppnerto/.
Subscribe/Unsubscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly email: Send ane-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov withthe word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website formore information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!
Title: Machine Learning Techniques to Identify Solar Filaments
Presenter(s): Ryan Goldberg, Graduate Student, NOAA/Office of Education, Educational Partnership Program (EPP), Cooperative Science Center for Earth System Science and Remote Sensing Technologies II
Date & Time: 8 January 2026
11:00 am - 11:30 am ET
Location: Webinar
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Machine Learning Techniques to Identify Solar Filaments

Presenter(s): Ryan Goldberg, Graduate Student, NOAA Office of Education, Educational Partnership Program (EPP), NOAA Cooperative Science Center for Earth System Science and Remote Sensing Technologies (CESSRST-II), Cohort 3 Fellow at the City University of New York City College

Sponsor(s): NOAA EPP/MSI Cooperative Science Centers

Seminar Contact(s): Audrey.Trotman@noaa.gov and oed.epp10@noaa.gov

Remote Access: Video call link: https://meet.google.com/npq-acov-qvq Or dial: (US) +1 650-817-8118 PIN: 330 346 383#More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/npq-acov-qvq?pin=2093849599062

Accessibility: Google Meet closed captioning available.

Abstract: Solar filaments are a regularly occurring feature of the solar atmosphere that provides crucial information on changes in solar activity and helps forecast solar weather. Most notably, filaments can give rise to coronal mass ejections (CMEs), a large expulsion of plasma and magnetic field from the Sun's corona that can heavily impact Earth's magnetosphere. However, filaments can be hard to detect across the entire solar disc, and methods that rely on human annotations, which are inherently costly and time-consuming, can lead to inconsistent mapping of solar phenomena. This project uses imagery from the Global Oscillation Network Group (GONG), which observes the full solar disk in the H-alpha band where filaments are most prominent. The first step uses preprocessing techniques to highlight filament features, along with the Segment Anything Model(SAM), to produce a first-pass filament segmentation. These SAM predictions are improved by incorporating physical constraints from known filament shapes, often connecting closely but separately located prediction masks. The second step trains a U-Net model on the machine-generated pseudo-labels to produce refined filament predictions. This model is validated against existing human-annotated filament mapping of the GONG H-alpha solar images.This self-training pipeline offers a scalable alternative to human annotations for filament mapping and the creation of a consistent, large-scale dataset. The dataset can serve as a new benchmark for solar filament detection models, and the self-training model can be adapted for automated analysis.The results are from the NOAA EPP CSC NERTO (in-residence at NOAA graduate internship) project conducted with NOAA mentor Rob Redmon of the NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI). The NERTO aligns with NOAA CSC CESSRST-II's goal to advance environmental data science and develop innovative remote sensing and machine learning capabilities that support NOAA's mission. The NERTO project, A Self-Trained Deep-Learning Methodology for Automated Solar Filament Detection and Dataset Generation, also deepened the intern's understanding of NOAA's data stewardship practices, solar-terrestrial monitoring needs, and the application of artificial intelligence to large-scale environmental information systems.

Bio(s): Ryan Goldberg is a NOAA Cooperative Science Center Fellow for the Center for Earth System Science and Remote Sensing Technologies (CESSRST-II). He is currently a PhD candidate at the CCNY Grove School of Engineering, studying Electrical Engineering with a research focus in Computer Vision. His current research involves adapting machine learning methods for data-driven climate research. Other projects include working in tandem with geoscientists to develop data-driven landslide-susceptibility maps to expand regional predictability and robustness. Ryan believes that the best use cases for artificial intelligence research come from partnering with subject-matter experts to leverage niche insights and advanced computational techniques to solve real-world environmental challenges. As such, his plans tackling the problem of filament detection involve applying more human annotations and input in model training.Ryan Goldberg is supported as a Cohort 3 Graduate Scholar in the NOAA Center for Earth System Science and Remote Sensing Technologies II (CESSRST-II) EPP Cooperative Science Center award.For more information access the webpage for the Cooperative Science Centers, https://www.noaa.gov/office-education/epp-msi/csc/20212022-awards andNERTO, www.noaa.gov/eppnerto/.
Subscribe/Unsubscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly email: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov withthe word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

7 January 2026

Title: Smoke Emissions from Fires: Trends and Anomalies
Presenter(s): Shobha Kondragunta, Research Physical Scientist, NOAA NESDIS Center for Satellite Applications and Research
Date & Time: 7 January 2026
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm ET
Location: Webinar
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Smoke Emissions from Fires: Trends and Anomalies
LEO Science Seminar Series

Presenter(s): Dr. Shobha Kondragunta, Research Physical Scientist, NOAA NESDIS Center for Satellite Applications and Research (STAR)

Sponsor(s): NOAA/NESDIS Office of LEO Observations

Seminar Contact(s): Amy Leibrand (amy.leibrand@noaa.gov)

Remote Access:
Google Meet joining info
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/yta-gcea-qzj
Or dial: (US) +1 646-653-4184 PIN: 468 785 438#


Accessibility: N/A

Abstract: Wildfires emit smoke into the atmosphere, impacting the environment and leading to detrimental impacts on human health and economy. The estimation of spatially and temporally resolved emissions from biomass burning provides critical information to understand the role of fires as a source sector for pollution. The use of satellite active fire products is an effective pathway to investigate wildfire emissions around the world. In this study, the Global Biomass Burning Emissions - eXtended is employed to estimate long-term temporal variation and geographic distribution of smoke emissions using satellite observations from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) and the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS). This study has identified that crop emissions are declining globally except in eight countries (e.g., India) due to a shift from burning crop residue to its recycling in developing countries. Similarly, in parts of the world such as in the western United States, there is a rise in the intensity, size, and duration of wildfires leading to a rise in smoke related pollution. Effective wildfire prevention and management could be beneficial to rapidly reduce smoke emissions from biomass burning. In this seminar presentation, I will present our work related to the generation of twenty-three years of fire emissions data record from MODIS and 13 years of fire emissions data record from VIIRS including the validation of emissions estimates. Findings from the analysis of this data record will also be presentedwith a focus on air quality impacts.

Slides, Recordings, Other Materials: Request from Seminar Contact

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6 January 2026

Title: Advancing Open Artificial Intelligence for Earth Observation and Climate Modeling
Presenter(s): Chris Bretherton, Senior Director of Climate Modeling, Allen Institute for Artificial Intelligence; Joe Redmon, Research Scientist, Allen Institute for Artificial Intelligence; Gabriel Tseng, Research Scientist, Allen Institute for Artificial Intelligence
Date & Time: 6 January 2026
2:00 pm - 3:15 pm ET
Location: Webinar
Description:

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Advancing Open Artificial Intelligence for Earth Observation and Climate Modeling
CISESS Science Seminar Series

Presenter(s): Chris Bretherton, Senior Director of Climate Modeling, Allen Institute for AI (AI2); Joe Redmon, Research Scientist, AI2; Gabriel Tseng, Research Scientist, AI2

Sponsor(s): Cooperative Institute for Satellite Earth System Studies

Seminar Contact(s): Douglas Rao (douglas.rao@noaa.gov)

Remote Access: Register to attend the Zoom webinar.

Accessibility: Closed captioning is available via Zoom.

Abstract: This seminar presents two complementary AI research programs at Ai2 addressing critical Earth science challenges. The first presentation introduces OlmoEarth, an open multi-modal foundation model trained on millions of satellite and sensor observations, enabling state-of-the-art environmental monitoring for applications ranging from crop mapping to wildfire risk assessment. The accompanying OlmoEarth Platform provides an end-to-end workflow for data collection, model fine-tuning, and deployment, enabling organizations to generate actionable Earth intelligence without specialized AI infrastructure. The second presentation covers recent advances in machine learning for climate simulation, including global atmosphere-ocean emulation, high-resolution downscaling, and progress toward end-to-end open-source climate prediction systems. Together, these efforts reflect Ai2's commitment to open, scalable AI tools for understanding and responding to planetary change.

Slides, Recordings, Other Materials: The recording will be made available via CISESS YouTube channel.

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Hosted at NOAA/NESDIS/STAR for the NOAA Science Seminar Series