Multidisciplinary Simulation, Estimation, and Assimilation Systems (MSEAS)

The Multidisciplinary Simulation, Estimation, and Assimilation Systems (MSEAS) Group (formerly known as the Harvard Ocean Prediction System (HOPS) is led by Professor Lermusiaux.

The research area is regional ocean data assimilation. By definition, this includes numerical modeling, uncertainty quantification and assimilation schemes, and applications to ocean dynamics. In contemporary ocean science and engineering, modeling systems that integrate understanding of complex phenomena and utilize efficient numerics are paramount. Advances in this area require that we quantify and predict uncertainties and reduce these by nonlinear data assimilation; the results determine critical observation needs and inspire model improvements. The study of interdisciplinary coastal ocean dynamics is a curiosity-driven intellectual challenge in itself. It is also vital to society, for industry, fisheries, energy, security and conservation, and ultimately for the assessment of human impacts on the ocean’s health and climate.