Brian Smoliak
Brian is the in-house expert on Earth observations and reproducible research, as well as on technologies focused on energy, agriculture, and human health at Two Degrees. He has a decade of experience with basic research in academia as well as five years of experience with applied research in the private sector. As a postdoctoral research associate at the University of Minnesota, he contributed to a groundbreaking field study of the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area urban heat island. Brian has also served as an atmospheric scientist at The Climate Corporation (acquired by Monsanto in 2013, acquired by Bayer in 2018) and WindLogics, Inc. (acquired by NextEra Energy in 2006). His problem solving toolkit spans scales from a farmer’s field or a wind turbine up to global supply chains and energy systems.
Brian earned a PhD in atmospheric sciences, an MS in atmospheric sciences, and a graduate certificate in communicating climate science at the University of Washington, as well as a BS in atmospheric sciences at Creighton University. In addition to his graduate theses, he has published peer reviewed journal articles, a book chapter, blog posts, newspaper articles, and a utility patent.
Sharai Lewis-Gruss
Sharai Lewis-Gruss is a seasoned professional with 15 years of experience in climate adaptation, environmental sustainability, GIS, and flood resilience. Formerly the Director of Data Enablement at First Street Foundation, she led the creation of the nation's first flood adaptation database, crucial for assessing climate-informed risk across the United States. Prior roles include GIS Specialist and Project Coordinator at COWI North America, where she mapped shorelines to mitigate sea level rise and storms. She also served as GIS Manager at the Regional Plan Association, creating interactive maps for federal agencies. With experience at FEMA and the International Union for Conservation of Nature, Sharai brings a wealth of expertise in climate and coastal resiliency on both national and international levels.