Jun Wang, University of Iowa’s Lichtenberger Family Chair in Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, was awarded the 2024 Joanne Simpson Medal for mid-career scientists in recognition of significant contributions to Earth and space science. Wang has a secondary appointment in the Department of Physics and Astronomy.
Wang was honored “for breakthroughs in remote sensing of fires and aerosols, seminal work in atmospheric composition studies, and outstanding services to AGU community,” according to the medal citation.
“Professor Wang has made tremendous contributions to the University of Iowa and his research field over many years," said Ann McKenna, Dean of the College of Engineering. "This award is a well-deserved recognition of those contributions.”
The award was presented to Wang at AGU24, which convened more than 25,000 attendees from over 100 countries in Washington, D.C. and virtually, December 9-13, 2024. AGU or the American Geophysical Union supports more than half a million advocates and professionals in the Earth and space sciences.
"You have made outstanding achievements and contributions by pushing the frontiers of our science forward," Lisa J. Graumlich, AGU president, said in a letter announcing the award. "You have also embodied AGU’s shared vision of a thriving, sustainable and equitable future for all, powered by discovery, innovation and action. And you have done so with integrity, respect and collaboration while championing diversity and creating deep engagement in education and outreach."
Watch the presentation. Wang's portion begins at 1:13:00.
Joanne Simpson is the first woman to earn a PhD, which she attained in 1949 at University of Chicago. During her career, Simpson made fundamental contributions to modern research on tropical clouds and hurricanes.
The Joanne Simpson Medal is given annually to up to three middle career honorees in recognition of transformative scientific advances or breakthroughs in the Earth and space sciences, strong leadership, and outstanding service to science and society. As part of the award benefits, Wang received an engraved medal and induction into the AGU College of Fellows.
Wang is the departmental executive officer and professor of chemical and biochemical engineering and assistant director of the Iowa Technology Institute. He joined the College of Engineering in 2016. His research is grounded in remote sensing and the study of aerosols. The research applies to a broad portfolio of projects, including the spread of wildfires, air quality, localized weather forecasts, smart sensing, agriculture, and public health.
Wang has authored more than 210 papers and leads the Atmospheric and Environmental Research group with 20 professional scientists and graduate and undergraduate research assistants.
See photos at https://engineering.uiowa.edu/news-all/2025/01/wang-wins-2024-joanne-simpson-medal#gallery