Assistant Professor
College of Letters & Science | Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences
Hometown: Guaynabo, Puerto Rico
Dr. Mayra I. Oyola-Merced is an atmospheric scientist and professor at the University of Wisconsin–Madison specializing in aerosol–weather interactions, aviation meteorology, and severe storm environments. She leads the SOARS research group, which integrates satellite observations, reanalysis, and high-resolution modeling to address real-world challenges in aviation and atmospheric science. A scientist-aviator, she is also training for her private pilot license, bringing a pilot’s perspective into both her research and teaching. She is a bilingual science communicator, producing and hosting radio and podcast programming on WORT 89.9 FM to make atmospheric and aviation science accessible to the broader community. Her work is deeply rooted in outreach, mentorship, and expanding access to STEM and aviation pathways.
These talks can also be offered in Spanish.
Talks:
The Captain Has Turned On the Seatbelt Sign: Why Weather Makes Flying So… Interesting
Ever wonder why a routine flight suddenly turns lively? Scientist-pilot Dr. Mayra Oyola-Merced reveals the surprising weather patterns behind turbulence, smooth skies, and the aviation incidents capturing attention today. This fast-paced, accessible talk pulls back the curtain on the atmosphere’s biggest plot twists—and how they shape every flight we take.
Hazy Skies, Stronger Storms: How Wildfire Smoke Shapes Wisconsin’s Air Quality and Severe Weather
Why do Wisconsin’s skies turn hazy so often? Dr. Mayra Oyola-Merced explains how wildfire smoke travels long distances, dims sunlight, worsens air quality, and can even influence storm development—shaping the ingredients for hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes. This accessible talk reveals what our orange, milky skies mean for severe weather across the Midwest.