Your questions answered
Rainmaker Research
Scientific rigor is the backbone of innovation at Rainmaker.
We push the frontier of atmospheric science, using proven methodology to validate the impact of our seeding missions and maximize safety, efficacy, and cost-effectiveness.
Quantitative Validation
Research Purpose
Obtaining clear evidence that cloud seeding works has historically been the field’s single greatest challenge. But the 2017 SNOWIE study showed us it can be done.
Rainmaker adapts SNOWIE’s methodology for a new era of cloud seeding—using best available radar and satellite data to validate the impact of our hyper-agile glaciogenic cloud seeding system.
Our continued goal is to obtain unambiguous seeding signature and accurate Quantitative Precipitation Estimation. We expand SNOWIE’s methodology to new use cases, weather conditions, and geographic regions.
Cloud Microphysics
Research Purpose
Our research UAVs unlock access to the microphysical processes that drive cloud seeding. Equipped with a full sensor suite and anti-icing system, they enable real-time measurement of atmospheric conditions, cloud dynamics, and aerosol-cloud interactions. Rainmaker also develops novel seeding agents tailored to local weather patterns.
Rainmaker works closely with top research institutions in atmospheric science. We collaborate with ETH Zürich’s CLOUDLAB, which uses stratus clouds as a natural laboratory to study cloud processes like ice formation and growth. In 2026, Rainmaker will participate in the SNOWSCAPE field campaign alongside the National Center for Atmospheric Research, the University of Utah, and Utah State University.
Convective Rain Enhancement
Research Purpose
Past research has focused on glaciogenic cloud seeding, targeting clouds in cold, mountainous environments. But today’s water crisis demands broader solutions. Rainmaker seeks to improve validation and operationalization in warmer, convective weather systems.
Kaitlyn Suski
PhD in Physical Chemistry, UC San Diego. 18 years of aerosol and cloud microphysics research. Leads Rainmaker's research into quantitative validation and efficacy of cloud seeding.
Amie Dobracki
PhD in Atmospheric Science, University of Miami. 10 years of experience as a field-instrument specialist. Leads deployment and calibration of disdrometers, radiometers, and aerosol samplers.
Josh Aikins
PhD in Atmospheric Sciences, CU Boulder. 13 years of experience deploying research weather radars to analyze cloud seeding plumes and extreme weather in the Great Plains & American West.
Martin Satrio
PhD in Meteorology, Oklahoma University. 8 years of research experience using weather radar. Develops algorithms to support cloud seeding operations and advance research on cloud microphysics.
Bart Geerts
PhD in Atmospheric Science, University of Washington. Professor and Associate Dean at the University of Wyoming. A principal investigator of NCAR's ground-breaking SNOWIE project.
Jan Henneberger
PhD, ETH Zürich. Group Leader, Experimental Cloud Physics at ETH Zürich. Leads the CLOUDLAB research center.
Work at Rainmaker
We do research for the public good.
Help us write a new chapter in atmospheric science. We take our mission seriously and provide all researchers with purposeful work and priority funding.
View Open Positions
- Full-Time Research on Fast-Paced, Innovative Projects
- Competitive Salary and Comprehensive Benefits (401k + Medical/Vision/Dental Coverage)
- Collaboration with Leading Research Institutions in Atmospheric Science & Meteorology
- Access to Top-of-the-Line Equipment: Aerosol Particle Sizers, CFDC, IS, Icing Wind Tunnel, Research UAVs, In-House Radar
