Janet Barlow: Advancing Urban Meteorology and Environmental Physics
In the face of rapid urbanization and changing climates, understanding the complex interaction between the built environment and the atmosphere is critical. Janet Barlow, a distinguished Scottish scientist and professor of environmental physics at the University of Reading, has dedicated her career to unraveling these dynamics. As an experimental physicist, her work bridges the gap between theoretical physics and practical urban planning to improve the quality of life in modern cities.
Key Facts
- Current Role: Professor of Environmental Physics at the University of Reading.
- Specialization: Urban meteorology, air quality, and environmental wind engineering.
- Key Research Tool: Utilizes a unique observatory atop London's BT Tower.
- Leadership: Former Director of the Centre for Technologies for Sustainable Built Environments (TSBE).
- Advisory Roles: Member of the UK Met Office Scientific Advisory Committee.
Academic Foundation and Career Path
Professor Barlow's journey into atmospheric science began with a multidisciplinary educational background. She earned a BSc in Applied Physics with German from UMIST in 1994, followed by an MSc in Applied Meteorology and Agriculture from the University of Reading in 1995.
Her doctoral research focused on the atmospheric boundary layer—the lowest part of the atmosphere that is directly influenced by the Earth's surface. Specifically, her PhD, completed in 1999 at the University of Reading, investigated the turbulent transfer of space charge within this layer. Following a three-year tenure as a postdoctoral research associate, she joined the University of Reading faculty as a lecturer in 2002.
Beyond teaching and research, Barlow has held significant leadership positions, most notably serving as the director of the Centre for Technologies for Sustainable Built Environments (TSBE) from 2011 to 2014.
Contributions to Urban Meteorology
Barlow's research is primarily experimental, employing a combination of urban observational campaigns and physical modelling via wind tunnels. Her work addresses several critical pillars of environmental science:
Air Quality and Urban Pollutants
By leveraging a specialized observatory located at the top of the BT Tower in London, Barlow has conducted extensive research on how weather and climate patterns influence the movement and concentration of urban pollutants. This data is vital for improving indoor and outdoor air quality and enhancing building ventilation systems.
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Renewable Energy and Wind Engineering
Her expertise extends to environmental wind engineering, where she examines how urban landscapes affect the generation of wind energy. Additionally, she has studied boundary layer flow effects surrounding wind farms to better integrate renewable energy sources into the broader energy system.
Urban Sustainability
Through her research into urban sustainability and weather forecasting, Barlow provides the scientific basis for creating cities that are more resilient to climate change and more efficient in their energy use.
Professional Recognition and Service
Professor Barlow's contributions have been recognized by leading international scientific organizations. Her commitment to the field is evidenced by her various board memberships and advisory roles.
| Organization | Role | Period |
|---|---|---|
| American Meteorological Society | Member of Board of Urban Environment | 2010–2014 |
| International Association of Urban Climate | Elected Member of Board | 2003–2007 |
| UK Met Office | Scientific Advisory Committee Member | 2017–Present |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Janet Barlow's primary area of expertise?
Janet Barlow is an expert in environmental physics and urban meteorology, focusing on air quality, urban sustainability, and the physics of the atmospheric boundary layer.
How does Professor Barlow study urban air quality?
She uses a combination of wind-tunnel physical modelling and real-world observational campaigns, including the use of a unique observatory at the top of the BT Tower in London.
What role did she play in sustainable building research?
From 2011 to 2014, she served as the director of the Centre for Technologies for Sustainable Built Environments (TSBE) at the University of Reading.
Does her work involve renewable energy?
Yes, she researches the effects of urban environments on wind energy generation and studies boundary layer flow effects around wind farms to improve renewable energy integration.
Which professional bodies has she advised?
She has served on the boards of the American Meteorological Society and the International Association of Urban Climate, and is a member of the UK Met Office Scientific Advisory Committee.