2002–2008
Graduate training in climatology
Earned an M.A. and Ph.D. in Geography/Climatology from Arizona State University after completing a B.A. in Environmental Sciences at the University of Virginia.
About
A climate scientist focused on useful questions.
Adam’s career connects atmospheric science to public health, education, military readiness, and institutional decision-making.
Overview
Applied climatology with a public purpose.
Adam J. Kalkstein, Ph.D., is a climate scientist, researcher, and educator whose work examines how weather and climate affect people and the institutions responsible for protecting them.
He earned a B.A. in Environmental Sciences from the University of Virginia and an M.A. and Ph.D. in Geography/Climatology from Arizona State University. His research has addressed extreme heat, mortality, air masses, weather-linked health risks, tropical cyclones, severe weather, and public understanding of environmental risk.
Adam joined the civilian faculty at the United States Military Academy in 2008. During more than 17 years at West Point, he taught climatology, meteorology, and geography; mentored cadets; led externally funded research; and applied atmospheric science to soldier health, preparedness, and national security.
He is also a Professor of Practice with Virginia Tech’s Center for Leadership in Global Sustainability, where he teaches climate science and related graduate work.
Career
Selected milestones.
2008–2026
Professor and scientist at West Point
Taught climatology and geography for more than 17 years, conducted externally funded research, mentored cadets, and connected atmospheric science to military readiness and national security.
2013
Army Science Board subject-matter expert
Contributed to the Army Science Board study on actions the Army could take to prepare for climate impacts through 2030.
2018–present
Virginia Tech Professor of Practice
Teaches climate change science and related graduate work through Virginia Tech's Center for Leadership in Global Sustainability.
2021–2025
Scientific leadership and editorial work
Served in International Society of Biometeorology leadership, edited biometeorology work, and co-edited a West Point Press volume on language, regional expertise, and culture in the military.
Leadership & service
Scientific work beyond the classroom.
Adam has contributed to international assessment, professional societies, military planning, and academic publishing.
Subject-matter expert, 2013 Army Science Board climate adaptation study
Expert reviewer in IPCC Fifth and Sixth Assessment Report processes
Climate and Human Health Commission leadership, International Society of Biometeorology
North America Councilor, International Society of Biometeorology
Co-editor, Language, Regional Expertise, and Culture in the Military (West Point Press, 2025)
Authoritative profiles