Asst Prof He Xiaogang (Civil and Environmental Engineering) 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. 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.
These approaches are now being explored or applied in different parts of the world, from California to Asia Pacific, to help communities better prepare for drought and other water-related risks.
Acknowledging the award, Asst Prof He said: “This recognition reflects the global importance of climate research and its real-world impacts on water, food, and energy security for vulnerable communities worldwide.”
He added: “I hope this inspires NUS and Civil and Environmental Engineering to continue leading the world in addressing the defining climate challenges of our time.”
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.
