IMK-AAF studies fundamental processes that govern the formation, transformations and sinks of atmospheric aerosols. These processes are of great relevance for climate, cloud and precipitation formation and for human health (IPCC AR5, Chapter 7). Its research is embedded in the Research Program “Atmosphere and Climate” of the Helmholtz-Association, where it contributes to Topic 1, Topic 3 and Topic 4. The institute operates the large Aerosol- and Cloud Simulation Chamber AIDA (Aerosol Interaction and Dynamics in the Atmosphere). Access to this facility is supported via the EU program EUROCHAMP.

Within KIT, IMK-AAF is contributing to the Center for Climate and Environment which addresses societal challenges resulting from changes of the climate and the environment in the context of demographic, economic and technical developments.