Mel Abler

Mel Abler is an accomplished researcher with extensive experience in plasma physics. Currently serving as an Assistant Researcher at UCLA since April 2024 and as a Research Scientist at the Space Science Institute since August 2021, Mel conducts laboratory experiments on the Large Plasma Device to investigate waves and turbulence in heliospheric plasmas. Prior roles include U.S. Program Director for TopRow, and a Graduate Research and Teaching Assistant at Columbia University, where Mel contributed to research focused on magnetohydrodynamic signatures. Mel's academic background includes a Master's Degree in Applied Physics from Columbia University and a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Physics, Astronomy-Physics, and Mathematics from the University of Wisconsin - Madison. Key early experience includes internships at NASA and involvement in galaxy research at the Arecibo Legacy Fast ALFA Survey team.