Research

Ensembles

Ensemble techniques combine multiple models or data sets together to produce more accurate results. Perfected by weather forecasters and data scientists, I am developing this state-of-the-art technique for use in improving solar flare forecasts.

Statistical Analysis

The HELCATS project provided a large catalogue of coronal mass ejections observed by the NASA/STEREO spacecraft. The FLARECAST project developed a solar flare forecasting system using machine learning with solar active region magnetic field properties. I combined the databases from these two projects to analyse the kinds of active regions that produce eruptive flares.

Data Assimilation

The ATMOP project aimed to build a new thermosphere model with the potential to spawn an operational version. Accurate models enable precise air drag computation which is mandatory for precise tracking of space objects in Low Earth Orbit. My role was to validate newly developed models with data assimilation at various periods during the solar cycle.

Space Weather Monitoring

I am involved in the maintenance and development of a number of websites dedicated to monitoring and forecasting of space weather phenomena, such as SolarMonitor.org, MagIE.ie, and the DIAS Dunsink Observatory citizen science pages.

European Projects

I have been a project management board member and work package contributor for a number of European Union Framework Package 7 and Horizon 2020 projects, such as PRE-EST, HELCATS, FLARECAST, and ATMOP. I am always keen to get involved with new collaborations, get in touch!

International Collaborations

I am lead coordinator of the NASA CCMC Flare Scoreboard, an automated system that allows model developers and operational space weather centres to upload their officially issued flare forecasts. The forecasts are shown on an interactive display to allow real-time global comparison. I also am a moderator for the International Space Weather Action Teams Solar Eruption Cluster and Innovative Solutions Cluster.