Heather Grams, Research Scientist (CIMMS/NSSL)
Background:
Ph.D., Meteorology, University of Oklahoma (2012)
M.S., Meteorology, University of Oklahoma (2008)
B.S., Meteorology (Minor: Geology), Iowa State University (2006)
Experience:
Heather spent her early years moving frequently. She was born in Garden City, Kansas, but then relocated with her family to numerous locations throughout the state, as well as Colorado, Oklahoma, and Texas. Inspired by the weather in the Great Plains, she eventually found herself in Ames, Iowa, where she pursued a bachelor’s degree in meteorology at Iowa State University. She then traveled to Norman, Oklahoma to earn her Master’s and Ph.D. in the same field at the University of Oklahoma. She has been with OU CIMMS since completion of her Ph.D. program in 2012.
What She Does:
Heather works primarily on data-related projects with CIMMS/NSSL. Her work focuses on the “Multi-Sensor” side of the Multi-Radar Multi-Sensor program, working on precipitation product development. She looks at satellite-derived QPE (GOES-R) and environment-derived products and guidance (RAP/HRRR), particularly in mountainous areas where radar coverage is limited. She is also a project manager for precipitation and QPE-related tasks funded by the Radar Operations Center.
Trivia:
Heather’s husband, Jeremy, is a forecaster at NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center. Together, they have one son, Benjamin, and a cat named Stormy. They are expecting their second child this October. In her free time, Heather also enjoys storm chasing, hiking, traveling, photography, and gardening.