Professor Xiquan Dong is a distinguished academic in the field of Hydrology and Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Arizona. With extensive experience in remote sensing, his research is primarily focused on aerosol-cloud-radiation-precipitation interactions and their impacts on Arctic sea ice and climate systems. Dong’s work has garnered over 6,200 citations and an impressive H-index of 43, highlighting his influential contributions to atmospheric science. He has authored 157 publications, with a strong track record in major journals such as the Journal of Climate and JGR-Atmosphere. Dong has supervised 17 Ph.D. students, with 13 successfully graduated, fostering the next generation of atmospheric scientists. His involvement in more than 20 NASA, NOAA, DOE, and NSF programs further exemplifies his leadership in the scientific community. His research has been integral to advancing understanding in climate dynamics, particularly in areas of cloud physics, aerosol radiative forcing, and extreme weather patterns. Dong’s significant service contributions include leadership roles in numerous professional societies, editorial boards, and symposia. His dedication to scientific progress and mentorship makes him a leading figure in his field.

Professional Profile

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Education

Professor Xiquan Dong holds a Ph.D. in Atmospheric Sciences from Penn State University, where he developed a foundational understanding of climate dynamics and remote sensing techniques. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Tianjin University in China, which provided him with a strong technical foundation. Dong’s education has been pivotal in shaping his expertise in atmospheric radiation, aerosol-cloud interactions, and remote sensing. His early work in electrical engineering is reflected in his later interdisciplinary approach, integrating engineering principles with atmospheric science. Over the years, Dong has demonstrated a commitment to lifelong learning, continuously expanding his expertise through active involvement in research, conferences, and collaborations. His diverse academic background enables him to approach complex atmospheric challenges from multiple perspectives, combining theoretical and applied methodologies. This solid educational foundation, paired with his practical experience, has positioned Dong as a leader in his field, influencing both current research and the future direction of climate science. His academic journey has also fueled his role as an educator and mentor, guiding young scientists to develop critical thinking and research skills in the evolving field of atmospheric sciences.

Professional Experience

Professor Xiquan Dong’s professional trajectory spans several prestigious institutions, demonstrating his leadership and expertise in atmospheric sciences. Currently, Dong serves as a Full Professor at the University of Arizona, where he has been a faculty member since 2016. Prior to this, he held faculty positions at the University of North Dakota, where he rose from assistant to full professor, further establishing his reputation in the scientific community. He has also worked as a Research Assistant Professor at the University of Utah and held a significant role as a Research Scientist at NASA Langley Research Center. Dong’s professional experience has been defined by his involvement in high-impact research on climate systems, particularly in aerosol-cloud-radiation interactions and Arctic sea ice dynamics. He has also been deeply engaged in numerous NASA and DOE-funded projects, contributing as both Principal Investigator (PI) and co-PI. His experience in scientific leadership extends to editorial roles, including serving as an editor for JGR-Atmosphere and Journal of Climate. Additionally, Dong has chaired several key committees and symposia, further emphasizing his leadership in the scientific community.

Research Interests

Professor Xiquan Dong’s primary research interests revolve around atmospheric radiation, aerosol-cloud interactions, and the impacts of climate change on Arctic sea ice. His pioneering work in remote sensing techniques has advanced understanding in how aerosol and cloud properties influence radiation transfer and precipitation. Dong is particularly focused on the complex feedback mechanisms between clouds, radiation, and the Arctic environment, which are critical to understanding climate change. He is also involved in studying extreme weather events and their interactions with cloud formation and precipitation patterns. His research on the effects of aerosols on the global climate system has contributed to the development of innovative models used to predict climate change scenarios. Additionally, Dong’s expertise extends to atmospheric radiation distribution and energy balance, areas crucial for advancing climate modeling and prediction. His work has far-reaching implications for environmental science, as it aids in better understanding the roles of aerosol and cloud feedbacks in climate variability, particularly in the Arctic, where climate change impacts are most pronounced. Dong’s research is central to improving remote sensing technologies and refining climate models, offering critical insights for addressing global environmental challenges.

Research Skills

Professor Xiquan Dong possesses a wide range of research skills that have enabled him to make significant contributions to the field of atmospheric sciences. His expertise in remote sensing is a cornerstone of his research, allowing him to investigate aerosol-cloud-radiation interactions with precision. Dong is highly skilled in using advanced satellite and ground-based observation techniques to measure and analyze atmospheric variables, which are essential for understanding climate processes. His proficiency in data analysis and modeling, particularly related to atmospheric radiation and cloud physics, enables him to create predictive models that enhance the understanding of climate change impacts. Dong’s technical abilities are complemented by his experience in managing large-scale research projects, securing substantial funding from agencies such as NASA, NSF, and DOE. As a mentor, he has imparted valuable research skills to his Ph.D. students, guiding them in their development of expertise in remote sensing, data interpretation, and scientific communication. Dong’s interdisciplinary approach combines engineering, physics, and atmospheric science, allowing him to tackle complex climate challenges and contribute to the advancement of global climate models and mitigation strategies.

Awards and Honors

Professor Xiquan Dong has received numerous accolades in recognition of his exceptional contributions to atmospheric and climate sciences. Among the most notable is the AAS Outstanding Editor Award in 2022, which highlighted his exemplary editorial work in advancing atmospheric sciences. Dong also received the AAS Special Issue Editor Award for his organization of a special issue on aerosol-cloud-radiation-precipitation interactions. His role in the NASA CERES Cloud Group earned him multiple NASA Group Achievement Awards, including recognition for excellence in developing cloud retrieval systems and climate data records. Dong has also received the prestigious Pecora Award for his significant contributions to NASA’s CERES team. In addition to these prestigious awards, he has been honored for his teaching excellence, receiving the Golden Ramer Award at the University of North Dakota in 2008 and 2015. His service to the scientific community is equally distinguished, having chaired and organized numerous symposia and served on important review panels for agencies such as NASA, DOE, and NSF. These awards and honors reflect Dong’s lasting impact on the scientific community and his leadership in advancing climate research.

Conclusion

Professor Xiquan Dong is a distinguished researcher and educator whose contributions to the field of atmospheric sciences have had a profound impact. His expertise in remote sensing, aerosol-cloud-radiation interactions, and Arctic climate feedbacks has led to groundbreaking advances in understanding climate change dynamics. Dong’s leadership in securing major research grants, mentoring the next generation of scientists, and his extensive service to the scientific community are a testament to his dedication and influence. His work has shaped the direction of climate research and continues to provide valuable insights into understanding the complexities of atmospheric systems. Dong’s outstanding publication record, numerous awards, and leadership roles highlight his reputation as a leading figure in the field. His interdisciplinary approach to climate science, coupled with his strong technical skills and ability to mentor young scientists, makes him a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. As a researcher and educator, Professor Dong exemplifies the qualities of scientific excellence, innovation, and mentorship that the award seeks to honor.