Deepangsu Chatterjee

Energy, Environmental & Chemical Engineering
Degree pursuing: PhD in energy, environmental & chemical engineering
Hometown: Kolkata, India

Where did you complete your undergraduate degree?
University of Calcutta

Please provide your lab and description of research. 
I work in the Atmospheric Composition Analysis Group. My research is about modeling the earth's atmosphere using constraints from satellite remote sensing and ground based observations.

What played into your decision to get a graduate engineering degree? 
My interests in the interface of science, engineering and policy were the major motivating factors for me to pursue a graduate engineering degree.

Why did you pick WashU? 
Several reasons, primarily my advisor: Randall Martin, followed by the research infrastructure, and the many opportunities for collaboration.

What was your favorite course and why? 
"Atmospheric Science and Climate" is a graduate-level course offered in the department. Brent Williams is a fantastic instructor who usually teaches the course. It was an exciting and well-designed course that motivated students to learn.

Who is your favorite instructor and why? 
It would not be justified to name a single instructor as my favorite. Most of the instructors in the department and other departments (I have some experience with courses from other departments) are really good.   

What advice would you give to a new student?
Explore, enjoy, keep challenging yourself. Don't settle for things in your comfort zone, communicate with others around you (you might have to take the first step), about things you will need.

What is your favorite thing about St. Louis?
It is a low traffic city and has affordable housing and fooding options, with plenty of places for hiking and camping.   

What campus activities or groups would you recommend to a new student? 
There are several- I really recommend using the recreation center, swimming pool, and tennis courts. Other activities include ballroom dance club, hiking clubs and several others are really interesting.

What are your plans for the future?
I want pursue a career in academia, that includes research, teaching and mentoring.