The American Geophysical Union (AGU) has recently announced its 2025 Honors Recipients. Professor Long Di from the Department of Hydraulic Engineering, Tsinghua University, has been selected to receive the Polubarinova-Kochina Hydrologic Sciences Mid-Career Award in recognition of his significant contributions to hydrologic science and his sustained academic leadership.

This prestigious honor follows Professor Long’s receipt of the AGU Hydrologic Sciences Early Career Award in 2019, marking another major international recognition of his long-term dedication and achievements in the field of hydrology.

Professor Long Di

Professor Long serves as a faculty member in the Department of Hydraulic Engineering at Tsinghua University, editor of Water Resources Research, and deputy director of the Key Laboratory of Hydrosphere Sciences of the Ministry of Water Resources. His research focuses on remote sensing hydrology, encompassing the development of theoretical frameworks and methodologies for retrieving groundwater storage variations from satellite gravimetry, multi-source remote sensing of surface water extent, level, discharge, storage, and ice thickness, as well as cryosphere monitoring and hydrological prediction in data-scarce regions.

Over the past decade, Professor Long has led pioneering studies that have deepened scientific understanding of global water cycle changes under climate and human influences. His research has also advanced the practical application of satellite-based data in water resource management, supporting decision-making for national and local agencies.

Professor Long’s research achievements have been recognized by numerous national and international honors, including the First Prize of the Dayu Water Science and Technology Award, the First Prize of the Surveying and Mapping Science and Technology Award, the First Prize for National Teaching Achievement in Water-Related Disciplines, the China Youth Science and Technology Award, and the AGU Hydrologic Sciences Early Career Award.

Founded in 1919, the American Geophysical Union (AGU) is one of the world’s largest and most influential scientific organizations in the Earth and space sciences. The Polubarinova-Kochina Hydrologic Sciences Mid-Career Award honors scientists who, within 11 to 20 years after earning their Ph.D., have made outstanding research contributions that have significantly advanced the field of hydrology. The award also recognizes excellence in interdisciplinary innovation, education and mentorship, and societal impact.

Editor: Li Han