AIMIS Laboratory
Astrophysical Ice and Matrix-Isolation Spectroscopy

Dr. Paul D. Cooper
Assistant Professor
Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry
MS 3E2
4400 University Drive
Fairfax, VA 22030

Email: pcooper6@gmu.edu
Ph: (703)-993-2403
Fax: (703)-993-1055

Office: Rm 335, Science and Technology I, Fairfax campus.

Laboratory: Rm 336, Science and Technology I, Fairfax campus.

Paul Cooper
(click to enlarge)

Welcome to the website of Dr. Paul D. Cooper and the AIMIS (Astrophysical Ice and Matrix-Isolation Spectroscopy) Laboratory. 

Ices

Water is one of the most abundant molecules in the universe. From intersteller clouds to planetary bodies, water can be found just about everywhere. In the AIMIS Laboratory, we are interested in investigating the chemistry of water ice when it is exposed to radiation. These laboratory experiments simulate the processes that occur on planetary surfaces such as Mars, Europa, Enceladus, Kuiper Belt Objects (KBO's) and comets.

Atmospheric molecular complexes 

The absorption of infrared radiation by molecular complexes in the atmosphere is important in modelling Earth's thermal energy budget. Complexes formed via hydrogen bonding, charge-transfer or dispersion forces can all produce shifts in both absorption band position and intensity from their parent molecules. These molecular complexes can be trapped in solid inert gas matrices where their absorption spectra can be measured, and their structure and bonding properties determined.

Research Opportunities

Research opportunities exist at both the undergraduate and graduate level. Please email me to enquire.