This $212,120 National Science Foundation Project Grant under the Geosciences program (CFDA 47.050) funds research into the impacts of atmospheric waves and geomagnetic disturbances on space weather conditions. Led by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in collaboration with Clemson University, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, New Jersey Institute of Technology, and Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University from May 1, 2022 to April 30, 2025, the research will advance understanding of how the Earth's ionosphere-thermosphere system varies due to solar variability and changes in the lower atmosphere. Specifically, the collaboration will investigate ionosphere-thermosphere responses to space weather events and atmospheric waves, including the preconditioning effects of waves on geomagnetic disturbance responses. The team will analyze observational data and model simulations to characterize daily and event-driven ionosphere-thermosphere variability. Additionally, a $212K subaward to New Jersey Institute of Technology supports research into the drivers of high-latitude ionospheric irregularities. Findings could help improve space weather forecasting capabilities.