Assistant Professor He Xiaogang has been named the first recipient of the Global Climate Research Prize, a new biennial award founded by Clare Hall, University of Cambridge, and LUT University, Finland.
Asst Prof He was selected from a distinguished group of four finalists drawn from the world’s leading universities — including Stanford University, UC Berkeley, and the University of Toronto.
Presented on 10 June 2026 at the Cambridge Union Debating Chamber, the prize recognises published, high-quality research with transformative and transboundary implications for addressing climate change.
Asst Prof He’s research uses climate science, data analytics and resilience frameworks to better understand and manage extreme weather events. By showing how excess floodwater can be captured and stored for use during dry periods, his research is helping to shape practical solutions for managing water more reliably. This includes managed aquifer recharge, where floodwater is directed underground to replenish groundwater reserves.
The award includes a €200,000 (S$297,000) grant to the recipient’s institution to support the continued development and expansion of the winning research programme.
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