F. Fierli

Institute of Atmospheric Sciences and Climate

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

F. Fierli’s research focuses on atmospheric aerosol dynamics, particularly the vertical distribution and optical properties of aerosols over the Sahel region of Africa. Their major contribution lies in characterizing the seasonal and inter-annual variability of aerosol layers—including dust, biomass burning, and urban pollution—using a combination of ground-based micro-lidar systems and satellite observations. By deploying lidar instruments at key sites in Banizoumbou (Niger), Cinzana (Mali), and M’Bour (Senegal), Fierli provided the first detailed, multi-year dataset on aerosol vertical structure in this climatically sensitive region. Their most cited work (2010, 49 citations) established a baseline for understanding how different aerosol types are transported and mixed across the Sahel, influencing regional climate and air quality. This research is critical for improving climate models and satellite retrieval algorithms in data-sparse West Africa. Fierli’s work has been instrumental in bridging ground-based and satellite observations, offering essential insights into the complex interactions between aerosols and the West African monsoon.