Mark Weber, Senior Research Physicist (IPA)
Background:
Ph.D. Geophysics, Rice University, 1979
B.A. Physics, Washington University
Experience: Mark was with the Naval Research Center from 1981-1984, then joined MIT Lincoln Laboratory through 2014. At Lincoln Lab, he was Assistant Head of the Homeland Protection and Air Traffic Control Division. Prior to holding this title, he led the Weather Sensing Group at the Lab, which is responsible for developing technology to support commercial aviation in the United States. Mark specifically focused on radar development and forecast algorithms to improve decision support in air traffic control.
What He Does: Mark plays a significant role in studying Multifunction Phased Array Radar (MPAR) at NSSL. He helps develop the radar architecture and researches strategies for future transitions in technology. Mark uses unique resources, like drones and Cubesat soundings, to explore the next generation of observing system concepts. He plans to use NoXP radar to study rapid changes in polarimetric variables, like those associated with ice crystal alignment in thunderstorms (caused by electric field build-up) and subsequent collapse following lightning.