Dr. Daniel Thornton

Professor

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Biography

Dr. Daniel Thornton is a biologist interested in microorganisms that play a profound role in shaping Earth's functions as a complex system. The research from Thornton's lab straddles traditional disciplinary boundaries, using a combination of controlled laboratory experiments and observations from the natural environment. His main research focuses on marine biogenic aerosols, considering their interface between the ocean and atmosphere, which covers 71% of Earth's surface and provides a large surface area for organic matter and intact microorganisms to be released into the atmosphere as sea spray. His collaborations aim to understand the role of marine microorganisms in producing aerosols and their effects on atmospheric processes. The objective is to produce a mechanistic model linking the ecophysiology of phytoplankton to aerosol properties and their abilities as cloud condensation nuclei and ice nucleating particles. Thornton also explores the ecological and biogeochemical implications of intact marine microorganisms in the atmosphere and their fate post-dispersal. Understanding phytoplankton physiology is crucial, as these organisms are pivotal to marine ecosystems and contribute significantly to Earth's carbon fixation. He has investigated how nutrient availability affects the growth and resource allocation of phytoplankton, particularly focusing on diatoms.

Research Interests

Phytoplankton Diatoms Biogeochemistry Biogenic Aerosol Sea Spray Aerosol Ice Nucleating Particles Ice Nucleation Exopolymer Particles Nitrogen Cycle Carbon Cycle

Experience

Professor

2018-01-01 — Present

Department of Oceanography, Texas A&M University • College Station, TX

Teach and conduct research in the field of oceanography.

Assistant Department Head Academics Undergraduate Affairs

2018-01-01 — 2019-01-01

Department of Oceanography, Texas A&M University • College Station, TX

Oversee undergraduate academic affairs.

Assistant Department Head

2013-01-01 — 2015-01-01

Department of Oceanography, Texas A&M University • College Station, TX

Manage departmental activities and assist in academic administration.

Associate Professor

2010-01-01 — 2018-01-01

Department of Oceanography, Texas A&M University • College Station, TX

Teach and mentor students while conducting research.

Assistant Professor

2004-01-01 — 2010-01-01

Department of Oceanography, Texas A&M University • College Station, TX

Started academic career in oceanography.

Research Fellow

2003-01-01 — 2003-01-01

Wrigley Institute for Environmental Studies, University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Conducted environmental research.

Research Fellow

2000-01-01 — 2002-01-01

Ecology Centre, University of Sunderland, UK • Sunderland, UK

Focused on ecological research.

Senior Research Officer

1996-01-01 — 1999-01-01

Department of Biological Sciences, University of Essex, UK • Colchester, UK

Leading research projects in biological sciences.

Requirements for Texas A&M University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
GRE General
TOEFL
Total
Required:80
Prerequisites
Baccalaureate degree Baccalaureate degree in Communication or related field preferred
Application Checklist
  • Curriculum Vita
  • Statement of Purpose (500-750 words)
  • Writing Sample (up to 10,000 words)
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Unofficial Transcripts
  • GraduateCAS Application
Specialization Notes

Department: Department of Communication and Journalism. Ph.D. program only currently admitting. GRE is test-optional.