A University of Iowa engineering professor recognized as an expert in how atmospheric composition affects climate has been elected as a fellow of the American Meteorological Society (AMS).

Jun Wang, James E. Ashton Chair in Engineering, will be formally presented with the award in conjunction with the 105th AMS annual meeting in January 2025 in New Orleans.

“Election to the grade of fellow serves as recognition of outstanding contributions to advance the atmospheric and related sciences, technologies, applications, and services for the benefit of society,” Stella Kafka, AMS executive director, said in a letter announcing the award. A maximum of two-tenths of 1% of the AMS membership is approved through the fellow nomination process. 

Wang is the departmental executive officer and professor of chemical and biochemical engineering and assistant director of the Iowa Technology Institute.

Wang’s 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, and localized weather forecasts.

Wang has authored more than 210 papers and has been awarded more than $10 million in externally funded grants. He leads the Atmospheric and Environmental Research group with 20 professional scientists and graduate and undergraduate research assistants. 

“It is a great honor to be elected as an AMS fellow," Wang said. "I am grateful for the collaboration with colleagues and team members both within and outside the University of Iowa. I also thank my family for their continuous support and acknowledge our college and university leadership for their encouragement through the years."