[4][5] Dessler was emeritus professor of Space Physics and Astronomy at Rice University, active from 1963 to 1992.

His educational innovations include the use of Keller-method inquiry-based self-paced instruction starting in 1970 and was instrumental in encouraging women and minorities in science.

[10][7] At the Possible Relationships Between Solar Activity and Meteorological Phenomena symposium, Goddard Space Flight Center, November 7–8, 1973, Charles Greely Abbot's lifelong work on solar activity provided the foundation for research as a possible driver for Earth weather.

The challenges facing scientists with complex systems like the planet's weather require finding a coupling mechanism.

[11] In 2004, Dessler refuted the proposition put forth by retired NASA scientist Addison Bain concerning the causes and combustion of the Hindenburg disaster.