AGU, the world's largest Earth and space science association, celebrates individuals and teams through its annual Honors and Recognition program for their accomplishments in research, education, science communication, and outreach. This year, AGU has recognized three CIRES researchers for work they have done to transform our understanding of the world, impact our everyday lives, improve our communities, and contribute to solutions for a sustainable future. 

Atmospheric Sciences Ascent Award: Jen Kay 

CIRES Fellow and Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences (ATOC) professor Jen Kay won the Atmospheric Sciences Ascent Award. The award recognizes mid-career excellence in research and leadership in the atmospheric and climate sciences. Kay has received international recognition for her work on clouds, radiation, ice, and coupled processes. “Advancing science and those who do it is my passion. Thank you to my nominators and to AGU,” said Kay. Learn more about her research group.   

Pavel S. Molchanov Climate Communication Prize: Twila Moon

Twila Moon, NSIDC deputy lead scientist and CEEE climate science engagement lead, won the Pavel S. Molchanov Climate Communication Prize. Moon’s pioneering research focuses on the Greenland Ice Sheet and Arctic systems science. She is an editor of NOAA’s annual Arctic Report Card. In her work as a communications specialist, Moon helps break down important concepts relating to climate change for those working in business, policy, finance, philanthropy, and media. 

AGU Fellow: Jennifer Balch

CIRES Fellow Jennifer Balch was named a 2025 AGU Fellow. Balch is the director of CU Boulder’s Environmental Data Science Innovation & Impact Lab (ESIIL) and a professor of Geography. Balch’s research aims to understand the patterns and processes that underlie disturbance and ecosystem recovery, particularly how people are shifting fire regimes and the consequences. Balch has received international recognition for her work on wildfires. As an AGU Fellow, Balch will offer expertise on wildfire science, advising government agencies and other organizations outside the sciences upon request.

Kay, Moon, and Balch join a distinguished group of scientists, leaders, and communicators recognized by AGU for advancing science. Each honoree reflects AGU's vision for a thriving, sustainable and equitable future supported by scientific discovery, innovation and action. 

Honorees will be recognized at AGU25, which will convene in New Orleans, Louisiana on December 15-19, 2025. Reflecting the theme “Where Science Connects Us'”at AGU25, the Honors Reception will recognize groundbreaking achievements that illustrate science's continual advancement, inspiring the AGU community with their stories and successes.