Camilla is an air quality researcher and Sweden's focal point for the UN's climate panel, IPCC.

Tell us about your job

I have been a researcher in air quality issues for about 20 years, and at the beginning of 2024, I was appointed as Sweden's contact person for the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change). I work approximately half-time on each of these tasks.

As a researcher, I have been involved in dispersion modelling within a field known as dispersion meteorology since the early 2000s. It started with a summer job at SMHI's research department, where I ran advanced numerical models on a supercomputer. Dispersion models are used to understand the concentration of and exposure to various air pollutants, as well as the types of sources that cause these pollutants, such as road traffic, wood burning, and shipping.

Understanding exposure and contributing sources is crucial because air pollution negatively affects human health and ecosystems—and it also impacts the climate.

At SMHI, we have data models and systems used to map and forecast air pollution. In recent years, we have developed a web portal, Luftwebb, where we have gathered various web services to understand current exposure levels in Sweden. We also work on understanding exposure and sources in other parts of the world, both in Europe and in developing countries.

For the past few years, I have mainly worked in air quality research as a project leader, providing expert support internally and externally, and handling communication. I answer many questions from the media and the public—although I also enjoy running a dispersion model and setting up an analysis programme when I have the time.

What about your role for the IPCC?

Working as the contact person for the IPCC involves representing Sweden at IPCC's decision-making meetings, where the main purpose is to produce reports describing the state of knowledge on climate change, its impact on the environment and society, and various solutions for climate adaptation and emission reduction.

The reports are written by independent experts, and member countries, including myself as Sweden's representative, collaborate to ensure this process. Being the IPCC contact person also involves communicating the conclusions of IPCC reports to the general public, coordinating Sweden's contributions to various IPCC-initiated activities, such as nominating experts and providing information on reviews.

What skills are needed for your job?

To work as an air quality researcher, one needs knowledge in meteorology, atmospheric chemistry, or environmental science, and a strong understanding of programming is essential for working with our advanced models. It is also important to be able to communicate in both English and Swedish in various contexts.

In the role of IPCC contact person, personal qualities are important. It is crucial to communicate clearly with researchers, decision-makers, the media, and the public, and to be cooperative, clear, and engaged in the mission to contribute to the societal changes needed for a green transition.

What is the best part of the job?

The best part is having the opportunity to contribute to real societal benefits, both as an air quality researcher and as the IPCC contact person.

What is the best part of working at SMHI?

Contributing to saving lives—both for people and for biodiversity!