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Hasan Barbhuiya Named the 2024 AGU Space Physics and Aeronomy Fred L. Scarf Award Winner

Recent WVU Physics and Astronomy graduate honored for outstanding PhD dissertation
Hasan Barbhuiya, PhD has been named the 2024 Space Physics and Aeronomy Fred L. Scarf Award recipient by the American Geophysical Union. This award recognizes outstanding dissertations that contribute to solar-planetary science. Hasan Barbuiya

As a graduate student in the WVU Department of Physics and Astronomy, Barbhuiya performed groundbreaking research that will have an impact on the study of superheated gases called plasmas that arise in the regions of space near Earth and in the atmosphere of the Sun. 

Barbhuiya was honored “for fundamental numerical and theoretical research on energy and entropy conversion in heliospheric plasmas out of local thermodynamic equilibrium.” His research adds new dimensions to how scientists understand the underlying mechanisms that heat plasmas in space. 

“I’m honored to receive the Scarf Award and incredibly grateful to AGU and the SPA section for this recognition,” said Dr. Barbhuiya. “I would like to extend my gratitude to my mentors, especially my PhD advisor Prof. Paul Cassak, and family, especially my wife Dipshikha Das, for their uncompromising support and encouragement.” 

“We are very proud of Hasan for this fantastic recognition for his years of hard work,” said Prof. Maura McLaughlin, chair of the Department of Physics and Astronomy at WVU. 

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. These honorees have transformed our understanding of the world, impacted our everyday lives, improved our communities and contributed to solutions for a sustainable future. 

Barbhuiya, who is now a postdoctoral fellow at West Virginia University, joins 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 AGU24, which will convene more than 25,000 attendees from over 100 countries in Washington, D.C. and online globally on December 9-13, 2024. 

About the AGU

AGU (www.agu.org) is a global community supporting more than half a million advocates and professionals in the Earth and space sciences. Through broad and inclusive partnerships, AGU aims to advance discovery and solution science that accelerate knowledge and create solutions that are ethical, unbiased and respectful of communities and their values. Our programs include serving as a scholarly publisher, convening virtual and in-person events and providing career support. We live our values in everything we do, such as our net zero energy renovated building in Washington, D.C. and our Ethics and Equity Center, which fosters a diverse and inclusive geoscience community to ensure responsible conduct.

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