October 20, 2025
Dr. Grace Affram is a Midwest Climate Adaptation Science Center postdoctoral researcher based at Indiana University’s Environmental Resilience Institute. Her research focuses on exploring the role of urban systems and green infrastructure in fostering climate resilience for Midwest ecosystems. Specifically, she is investigating how extreme events influence urban landscapes and how these environments can mitigate climate stressors and enhance ecosystem resilience across the region.
Affram took the time to answer a few questions about her experience and the work she’s leading for the MW CASC. Learn more below!
Where are you from?
“I’m originally from Ghana, West Africa, where I began my academic journey in Meteorology and Climate Science. Over the years, my academic and research experiences have taken me across Africa, Europe, and North America, shaping my perspective on global and regional climate systems. I earned my Ph.D. in Climate Science at Utah State University, where my research focused on understanding hydroclimate variability across the United States, specifically the roles of human activities, temperature, precipitation, and subtropical Pacific warming. I also hold a master’s degree in Earth System Physics from the International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP) in Italy.”
What brought you to the MW CASC?
"My research has always been driven by the desire to connect climate science with practical solutions that improve resilience and sustainability. Joining the MW CASC provides an excellent opportunity to integrate climate modeling, hydrological analysis, and sustainability research in a collaborative, applied environment. The MW CASC’s mission to advance science-based solutions that strengthen community and ecosystem resilience aligns perfectly with my research interests and long-term professional goals.”
What’s something that’s exciting to you about joining the MW CASC community?
“I’m excited about the MW CASC’s strong emphasis on collaboration and coproduction. The MW CASC provides the perfect platform to collaborate with scientists, practitioners, and policymakers to advance actionable, science-informed adaptation strategies. I look forward to contributing to projects that support resilience planning across the Midwest while also learning from others working at the intersection of climate, ecology, and sustainability.”
What are the goals of the synthesis project you’re leading?
"My project examines how urban systems and green infrastructure contribute to climate resilience under increasing stressors such as extreme heat, droughts, floods and tropical pacific warming. We focus on two specific areas in the Midwest, Indianapolis and Northwest Indiana in and around Indiana Dunes National Park, to assess how nature-based solutions can mitigate climate risks and enhance ecosystem sustainability using a resilience modeling framework.”
What kind of impact do you hope this project has?
“I hope this project strengthens the scientific foundation for climate adaptation planning by providing practical guidance on how urban green infrastructure can build ecosystem and community resilience. The goal is to develop a framework that supports equitable and sustainable adaptation strategies for cities and states across the Midwest. This work aims to develop a science-based framework that city planners and decision-makers can use to design greener, more climate-resilient urban environments.”
What do you like to do outside of work?
“Outside of research, I enjoy exploring nature trails, cooking, and discovering different cultures and cuisines. I also love hanging out with friends and family and attending concerts. Spending time outdoors helps me stay grounded and continually reminds me of the importance of protecting the environment.”
Anything else you want to share?
“I’m passionate about interdisciplinary, data-driven climate science that informs decision-making and supports resilient communities. I look forward to collaborating with the MW CASC network to advance applied research that bridges science, policy, and practice. I’m excited to work with the community to co-produce knowledge that helps both the people and ecosystems thrive in a changing climate.”