Researcher Spotlight - Philomène Dufour Shaping Climate Models

With a background in mathematical modeling from Sorbonne University, Philomène’s research focuses on applying Generalized Lagrangian Mean (GLM) theory to understand how waves influence energy budgets and exchanges in the ocean surface layer. Motivated by a love for mathematics and climate awareness, Philomène sees her work as a way to bridge theoretical physics and real-world environmental challenges. 

Through collaboration across disciplines and institutions, Philomène aims to enhance the physical consistency of climate models, contributing to more accurate predictions and understanding of climate change impacts. Their approach embodies the collective spirit of scientific inquiry: persistent, patient, and purpose driven.

What motivates you to work in this field?

“I have always found Mathematics beautiful, and I wanted to use it in a more impactful way. By linking it to oceanography and climate change, I found a way to approach science in a manner that feels meaningful to me. It is rooted in real-world questions and connected to current social and environmental issues. In some sense, I feel a bit like a ‘scientific pirate’, driven by climate awareness and love for mathematics. These are my motivations!”

How has your background and career path shaped your approach to climate science?

“I completed a Master’s degree in Mathematical Modelling at Sorbonne University in Paris. During my studies, I focused on functional analysis and the theory of partial differential equations. Later, I shifted my focus toward fluid dynamics and applied mathematics in oceanography. For my Master’s thesis, I worked on coupled ocean-atmosphere equations—a topic I found particularly engaging. This experience solidified my interest in pursuing research in this field.”

What are your primary research interests?

“My primary research interest is the Generalized Lagrangian Mean (GLM) theory, introduced by Andrews and McIntyre in 1978. This theory provides a framework for understanding how waves influence mean flow. Recently, a geometric version of GLM has been developed, addressing inconsistencies in the original formulation and embedding it in an elegant geometric framework. This is what makes it particularly appealing to me. My goal is to apply this approach to surface waves, focusing on energy budgets and exchanges My goal is to apply this approach to surface waves while incorporating turbulence through parameterization, with a focus on its impact on energy budgets and on the structure of wave–mean flow interactions.”

What do you believe are the most pressing challenges in climate science today, and how does your work contribute to addressing them?

“One of the biggest challenges in climate science is understanding and translating complex physical processes into models, which are often strong simplifications of the real world.

I believe that a theoretical approach can help us improve the physical consistency of the models and contribute to better parameterizations, providing a more accurate and reliable climate modeling.”

How does collaboration across different institutions and disciplines enhance the impact of your research?

“As I am studying a highly multidisciplinary subject involving oceanography, fluid mechanics, and mathematics, collaboration is a very important aspect of my work. TRR 181 has the advantage of bringing together experts from different fields to collaborate on the topic of energy transfers in the atmosphere and ocean. This creates a particularly good environment to meet people, exchange ideas, and learn.

In addition, the project attracts researchers from all over the world, and I have already had the opportunity to interact. These exchanges allow me to progress in my PhD.”

What advice would you give to students or young researchers interested in pursuing a career in climate sciences?

“I would say that it can take time to feel that your work is truly useful, even when working on topics as important as climate science. For me, this understanding did not come immediately. However, research is also a collective effort, and progress comes from working together, sharing ideas, and contributing incrementally to a broader scientific goal. I believe it is important to embrace this collective spirit and to remain patient and persistent along the way.

What is the best way to connect with you for potential research collaboration?

“I would be very happy to discuss my PhD work, or more generally topics related to mathematics, fluid dynamics, and oceanography. Until now I have mostly worked in an independent way, as it is expected in a PhD project. However, I am eager to collaborate and broaden my perspectives. You can contact me directly via my institutional email address.”