Land surface model (Simplified Simple Biosphere Model, SSiB) development, including biophysical processes, photosynthesis process, cryospheric processes, and dynamic vegetation processes. 

Atmosphere-land surface coupling processes and hydrometeorological prediction, focusing on the impact of land-surface processes, including vegetation biophysical processes, land-cover and land use change, and land-surface parameters and parameterizations, on regional climate and global climate variability and anomalies, with a special emphasis on monsoon systems, and the mechanism involved.

Leading an effort for West African Monsoon Modeling and Evaluation (WAMME), a CIMS/CEOP initiative. 

Remote sensing methodology for atmospheric and land surface variables, and application of remote sensing products in prediction studies.

Relations between environment and climate conditions and different genetic strains of malarial mosquitoes.

Areas of active research include West Africa, South America, Continental U.S., and East Asia.