People of PCHES: Keiko Kircher

In the world of scientific exploration, some paths are paved with deliberate intent, while others arise from a serendipitous mix of curiosity and opportunity. For Keiko Kircher, the journey from a physics classroom to the complex field of atmospheric science was far from typical. With a background rooted in the elegant precision of physical laws, a passion for pattern recognition and a deep curiosity about nature, Keiko has carved out a distinctive nich — connecting theoretical physics with practical climate science.

The transition from physics to atmospheric science was not a deliberate choice but rather a fortunate coincidence. Originally from Japan, Keiko earned degrees in physics and mathematics from the University of Alaska-Fairbanks and the University of Illinois. Keiko initially pursued a career in teaching physics but soon felt a desire to meaningfully contribute to the society through scientific work. The prospect of addressing climate change inspired Keiko to pursue a PhD degree in atmospheric science under the mentorship of Dr. Ryan Sriver at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Despite lacking a formal training in environmental sciences, Keiko quickly adapted, using her strong foundation in physics and mathematics to successfully navigate the challenges of mastering this entirely new field.

In her current research with the PCHES project, Keiko mathematically derived an analytical model of mid-latitude temperature variability from a simple physical picture, focusing on the role of meridional winds in determining temperature probability density function. This work develops a theory linking the distribution of local temperatures in time to time-average temperature profile in space, and the theory is tested by using a climate model. The study aims to provide a way to connect difficult-to-measure extreme temperature events to time-average temperature profile, which is much easier measured and predicted.

An overaching goal of Keiko’s doctoral research is to develop a robust theoretical framework that explains observed patterns in climate data, paving the way for more accurate and reliable climate predictions. This involves evaluating and grading existing climate models based on how well they predict temperature changes, which is crucial for making informed decisions about future climate scenarios, particularly in relation to critical issues like crop survival in a changing climate. Keiko’s project stands apart from typical bias correction methods, as it focuses on comparing models against fundamental physical laws rather than historical data. The results have been promising, and Keiko’s first manuscript has recently been submitted for peer review. The next steps in the research include refining the original theory by accounting for variations in wind patterns across different locations and developing a more comprehensive physical explanation for the changes observed in climate models.

Music, like physics, is a domain where patterns play a central role, and Keiko finds joy in the structured complexity of both. Outside of her scientific pursuits, Keiko is an accomplished pianist. Her passion for music began with learning the Electone, an electric organ popular in Japan. When she moved to the United States for her studies, Keiko switched to the piano, quickly becoming proficient. She now participates in amateur piano competitions worldwide and has won awards. One of the musical pieces composed by Keiko has been used in an educational program at the Van Cliburn Foundation, a world-renowned music foundation also known as “the Cliburn.” For Keiko, music serves as both a creative outlet and a way to connect with others who share her passion. Her love for music is accompanied by a deep affection for animals, particularly her dog, Neutrina—a name inspired by her physics background.

Ultimately, Keiko’s journey is a testament to the power of curiosity and the unexpected directions it can take. From the theoretical realms of physics to the practical challenges of climate science, Keiko is driven by a desire to understand the world—and, in the process, to make it a better place for all living organisms, including humans.