Michael Vermeuel joins the College of Science Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Science Department as assistant professor
01-08-2025
The College of Science EAPS Department welcomes Michael Vermeuel to the faculty in the fall of 2024. Vermeuel’s research will focus on how reactive gases are exchanged between the lower atmosphere and Earth's surface and their effect on air quality and composition. Vermeuel says, “For example, cities release pollutants from sources such as fossil fuel combustion, while trees emit pine-scented chemicals that form ozone and particulates. Trees also absorb pollutants, making some areas both sources and sinks of key gases. We will measure this two-way exchange and use models to improve our understanding of how atmospheric and surface processes affect air chemistry.”
In the fall of 2024, Vermeuel taught Introduction to Atmospheric Science and will teach Boundary Layer Meteorology in the Spring of 2026. He also plans to design a course on chemical transport modeling where students learn the theory and fundamental components of atmospheric chemistry models and run them to address real research questions. “I just taught my first semester at Purdue this past fall and really enjoyed the experience!” says Vermeuel.
Vermeuel earned his B.S. in Chemistry from the College of New Jersey and his Ph.D. in Chemistry at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he worked in the lab of Dr. Timothy Bertram. After completing his Ph.D., he moved to St. Paul, Minnesota, where he worked as a postdoctoral researcher in atmospheric chemistry with Dr. Dylan Millet at the University of Minnesota and Dr. Delphine K. Farmer at Colorado State University.
He believes that Purdue University is “a world-class academic institution, offering abundant resources and a strong commitment to research and education while cultivating a passionate student body,” says Vermeuel. “Everyone here is incredibly friendly and approachable! I feel truly fortunate to be part of such an inspiring and engaging community.”
Indiana’s diverse mix of cities, forests, and farms will provide Vermeuel with numerous opportunities to study atmospheric gases across many ecosystems. Purdue’s strong relationship with the region will allow Vermeuel’s group to lead multiple local field studies, which will help him make scientific advancements that benefit the university, the state, and the broader community.
Vermeuel was born and raised in Central New Jersey, where the scenery is much different from West Lafayette. But living in the Midwest for ten years has made him comfortable enough to consider himself a Midwesterner. He is a huge fan of Bruce Springsteen and enjoys spending time outdoors, taking walks with his wife and dog, and appreciating nature. “Indiana is home to many beautiful parks and forests, and I'm excited to explore them all! In my downtime, I also love reading, playing guitar, and weightlifting,” says Vermeuel.
About the Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences at Purdue University
The Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences (EAPS) combines four of Purdue’s most interdisciplinary programs: Geology & Geophysics, Environmental Sciences, Atmospheric Sciences, and Planetary Sciences. EAPS conducts world-class research, educates undergraduate and graduate students, and provides our college, university, state and country with the information necessary to understand the world and universe around us. Our research is globally recognized, our students are highly valued by graduate schools, employers, and our alumni continue to make significant contributions in academia, industry, and federal and state government.
Written by: David Siple, Communications Specialist for the Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences Department at Purdue University