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.
Buesseler is a marine radiochemist who studies the fate and distribution of radioactive elements in the ocean, including the ocean carbon cycle where naturally occurring isotopes can inform how quickly and how much carbon is carried on sinking particles from the sun lite surface through the ocean twilight zone to the deep sea. Buesseler is a well-known expert in the assessment of radioactivity associated with the releases from Chernobyl, Fukushima, the Marshall Islands, and other localized sources, and is often called upon by national and international media to provide scientific perspective. He is a leader in studying the ocean’s role in regulating climate and to what degree ocean carbon dioxide removal might be enhanced in a responsible, transparent, and quantifiable way.
“It is an honor to receive this distinction from AGU,” said Buesseler. “Educating public audiences regarding radioactivity in the oceans and training the next generation of ocean radiochemists is extremely important, so to be recognized for this work is gratifying.”
Buesseler 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 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.
