All Around Us: The Impact of Aerosols on Human and Environmental Health

March/April 2025

Prof. Tom Sheldrake (UNIGE) Prof. Nina Zeyen (UNIGE) James Vincent (UNIGE) Frank Förster (UNIGE)

Martin Gysel-Beer (Paul Scherrer Institute)

Benjamin Brem (Paul Scherrer Institute)

Aerosols originate from both natural sources (such as desert dust, volcanic ash, and pollen) and anthropogenic activities (including construction, industrial emissions, and vehicle exhaust) and interact with environmental and ecological processes. This CUSO course is designed to provide an in-depth understanding of the biogeochemical impacts of aerosol deposition on human and environmental health.

Over three days, participants will engage with experts in aerosol science through a combination of lectures, laboratory visits, and fieldwork.

1. Day one explores the fundamentals of aerosol science, including the origins, characteristics, transport mechanisms, and interactions of aerosols with the environment and humans.
2. Day two is a hands-on experience at Swiss research institutions to understand the methods used for aerosol analysis and research in Switzerland.
3. Day three will be field-based to understand real-world applications of aerosol monitoring for scientific research.

By interacting with specialists studying aerosols at micro, meso, and macro scales, participants will be introduced to advanced techniques and methodologies used in aerosol science. This course offers a comprehensive overview of the dynamic world of aerosols and ecosystems, combing theoretical knowledge with practical experience.

Paul Scherrer Institute, Villigen PSI, Switzerland

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