Zhuo Chen is a PhD student at the University of Manchester and part of the fifth cohort in the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Aerosol Science. He studied for an undergraduate degree in environmental science on a joint program between the University of Manchester and Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology. He then worked on real-time bioaerosol spectroscopy and detection techniques and received an MPhil degree from the University of Manchester.

What are you working on within the Hub?

My PhD project aims to combine state-of-the-art real-time single particle integrated optoelectronic bio-aerosol and dust-aerosol spectrometry techniques with neural network data analysis and micrometeorological flux measurement techniques. These are augmented by laboratory wind tunnel studies alongside UK Met Office dispersion models, to transform our understanding and quantification of bioaerosol emission fluxes from different agricultural landscapes under different atmospheric conditions and agricultural applications. Using the same flux techniques, spray pesticide dispersion cloud properties and deposition efficiencies may also be monitored over and within agricultural canopies using high-speed liquid droplet spectrometers and turbulence sensors. 

What is the impact of your research so far?

So far, I have participated in testing three real-time Bioaerosol detection instruments, including Multiparameter Bioaerosol Spectrometer (MBS), Wideband Integrated Bioaerosol Sensor (WIBS) and SwisensPoleno Jupite. I also assisted in the development of bioaerosol classification programs to further analyse instrumentally measured aerosol spectra. I also utilsed machine learning in pilot experiments to quantify the correlation between the bioaerosols and trace gases emitted from farmland and animal houses and meteorological conditions

What has been the highlight of your research career to date?

Under the guidance of our tutor and with the assistance of various institutions, we successfully deployed the aerosol real-time detection instrument at multiple points. At the same time, we were also able to understand the online and offline detection methods of aerosol particles. I hope these experiences provide different research perspectives to the hub and support further innovation.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Outside of research, I love short hikes. I spend most weekends on country trails and at nature attractions.