The ISAR Distinguished Career Award recognizes individuals who have made sustained and transformative contributions to the aeolian science community over the course of their careers. These contributions may span research excellence, innovation, communication, mentorship, and professional development, and should demonstrate a lasting impact on the field.
This award honors a distinguished and sustained career in any aspect of aeolian processes, whether in academia, government, or industry. The nominee’s work should demonstrate long-term excellence and have significantly influenced the direction, understanding, or advancement of aeolian science. Scientific contributions will be evaluated based on originality, significance, and overall impact. Consideration will be given to a range of achievements, including but not limited to:
- The creation of a substantial body of high-impact research publications
- Advancing fundamental knowledge in aeolian science
- Leadership in training and mentoring the next generation of aeolian scientists
- Demonstrable influence of aeolian science beyond academia
- Development of novel, innovative, or transformative research tools and methods
- Contributions to positive change within professional aeolian science communities or societies
Winners are asked to give a ‘Career Talk’ during the upcoming ICAR or as a virtual ISAR talk.
*Career interruptions should be described in a brief statement submitted with other required documents.
Previous award winners include:
| Award Year | Awardee |
| 2026 | Richard Reynolds |
| 2025 | Yaping Shao |
| 2024 | Tom Gill |
| 2023 | Cheryl McKenna Neuman |
| Doug Sherman | |
| Patrick Hesp | |
| 2020 | Robin Davidson Arnott |
| Andrew Warren | |
| 2018 | Joe Prospero |
| Nick Lancaster | |
| 2016 | Grant McTainsh |
| Haim Tsoar | |
| 2014 | Bill Nickling |
| Ed Skidmore | |
| 2006 | Dale Gillette |