Son of Thomas M and Esther McPherson, Pittsburgh, 1963. BA in Physics, Brown University where he helped establish an environmental studies program and facility, 1985; PH D, Atmospheric Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1990, Resarch Scientist, Harvard University, 1990-2000, Assistant Professor of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, specializing in Atmospheric Chemistry, Carnegie-Mellon University;2000-President Elect, Pittsburgh branch American Chemical Society.
Married Dr.Maren Cooke, Planetary Astronomer (Cornell) 1998 Daughters Kielan (Caolfhionn) 1998 and Inness,2000