Michael Priestley

My project aims to determine the contribution of OH and other oxidants (NO₃, O₃ and Cl) to the overall oxidation rate around Manchester. Oxidation is a decisive process in controlling the lifetime of atmospheric pollutants yet oxidant concentrations can vary greatly depending on environmental conditions. In conjunction with the University of Bristol, I will monitor inert and reactive trace gases around Manchester to determine the influences of environmental factors such as urban morphology, wind, emission, decay and deposition on oxidant concentrations and reaction rates. I will use lab experiments and computer modelling techniques to validate my findings. 

I am looking forward to the variety of lab and computer work my research entails, as well as attending specialist training courses provided by the University of Manchester and NERC. Previous to starting at Manchester, I completed a Masters degree in Climate and Atmospheric Science at the University of Leeds and a BSc in Chemistry at the University of York.