University of North Dakota professor gains NOAA's David S. Johnson award

Jianglong Zhang, Ph.D., an award-winning meteorologist and atmospheric scientist, will gain the prestigious N.O.A.A. David S. Johnson Award, which acknowledges young scientists for their innovative use of environmental satellite data. Dr. Zhang will gain the award on March 30 at the 55th Yearly Robert H. Goddard Memorial Dinner in Washington, D.C.

The NOAA-Johnson Award, 1st presented in 1999, is named after the 1st assistant administrator for NOAA's Satellite and Information Service and recognizes professional scientists who create new uses for observational satellite data to better predict atmospheric, oceanic and terrestrial conditions.

Dr. Zhang was cited for developing new techniques that use satellite measurements to forecast the impact of aerosol particles in the atmosphere, which can impact daily human life. For example, an increase in aerosol concentrations can influence clouds, making them brighter and reflect more sunlight back into space, reducing ground temperatures.

He also led the development of the world's 1st operational aerosal assimilation system, which is being used by the U.S. Navy Fleet Numerical Meteorology and Oceanography Center.

"This award highlights the exemplary work young scientists like Dr. Zhang are performing with satellite data that directly benefit society," said Mary Kicza, assistant administrator for NOAA's Satellite and Information Service. "We are excited about the work he's done already and all that lies ahead."

Dr. Zhang, an assistant professor in atmospheric sciences at the University of North Dakota, received both his Ph.D. in atmospheric science and a M.S. in computer science at the University of Alabama in Hunstville in 2004. In 2009, he received the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers as one of America's top 100 young scientists.

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