Ognjen Bonacci | Earth and Planetary Sciences | Excellence in Research

Published on by Global Scholar Awards

Prof. Dr. Ognjen Bonacci | Earth and Planetary Sciences | Excellence in Research

Faculty of Civil Engineering Architecture and Geodesy at Split University, Croatia

Ognjen Bonacci is a distinguished researcher specializing in hydrology, ecohydrology, and water resources management, with over 700 publications, including more than 90 in top-tier scientific journals. His contributions have earned him 4,398 citations in Web of Science and 3,803 in Scopus. As a Professor Emeritus at Split University, he has held leadership roles in UNESCO’s International Hydrological Programme and served as a reviewer for over 400 journal papers. He has authored five books and contributed to ten book chapters in prestigious publishers like Springer and Wiley. His work has been recognized with three national science awards, highlighting his lifetime achievements in research. While his expertise is deeply rooted in hydrology, broader interdisciplinary collaboration and increased industry engagement could further enhance his impact. With a strong academic record, global recognition, and leadership in international research, he is an excellent candidate for the Excellence in Research Award.

Professional Profile

Education

Ognjen Bonacci has a strong academic foundation in hydrology and water resources management, which has shaped his distinguished career. He earned his degrees in civil engineering and hydrology, specializing in karst hydrology, ecohydrology, and sediment transport. His academic journey led him to become a Professor Emeritus at Split University, where he contributed significantly to research and education. With a deep understanding of engineering hydrology, he has authored influential books and research papers, advancing knowledge in the field. His extensive involvement with UNESCO’s International Hydrological Programme and various global hydrology committees showcases his commitment to education and scientific progress. In addition to mentoring students and researchers, he has played a pivotal role in shaping water resource policies and interdisciplinary studies. Through decades of academic excellence, leadership, and research contributions, his educational background has positioned him as a leading authority in hydrology and water resource management on an international scale.

Professional Experience

Ognjen Bonacci has had an illustrious career in hydrology, ecohydrology, and water resources management, serving as a Professor Emeritus at Split University. He has held prestigious leadership roles, including Chairman of the Croatian National Committee for UNESCO’s International Hydrological Programme (IHP) and the Operational Hydrological Programme of WMO (2000-2010). He was Chairperson (2004-2006) and Vice-Chairperson (2007-2008) of the IHP-UNESCO Bureau and a member of advisory boards for UNESCO IHE and the UNESCO International Center on Karst. With extensive international contributions, he has reviewed over 400 research papers for leading journals and evaluated scientific projects for institutions such as the USA National Science Foundation. As an associate editor for multiple hydrology-focused journals, he has significantly influenced the field. His expertise extends to conference presentations worldwide, authorship of five books, and contributions to major publishers. His career demonstrates a deep commitment to advancing hydrological sciences through research, leadership, and mentorship.

Research Interest

Ognjen Bonacci’s research interests span a wide range of topics within hydrology and water resources management, with a particular focus on engineering hydrology, karst hydrology, ecohydrology, and sediment transport. His work explores the complex interactions between hydrological systems and climate change, emphasizing sustainable water resource management and transboundary water governance. He has made significant contributions to hydrometry, operational research, and the legal aspects of water resources, providing valuable insights into river hydrology and environmental conservation. His research also extends to the impacts of climate variability on water systems, addressing challenges in water availability, flood risks, and drought management. Through his extensive publication record, including books and high-impact journal articles, he has advanced scientific understanding in these areas. His interdisciplinary approach integrates hydrology with ecological and engineering perspectives, making his work highly relevant for both theoretical research and practical applications in water management and environmental sustainability.

Award and Honor

Ognjen Bonacci has received numerous prestigious awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding contributions to hydrology and water resources management. In 1988, he was awarded the National Annual Science Award for his groundbreaking research in karst hydrology. His continued excellence in scientific research earned him the National Science Award of the Republic of Croatia in 2011 for exceptional achievements. In 2021, he received the Slobodna Dalmacija Newspaper Science Award for his lifelong contributions to scientific advancements. Beyond national recognition, his leadership roles in UNESCO’s International Hydrological Programme and advisory positions in global hydrology institutions highlight his international influence. With over 4,000 citations in Web of Science and Scopus, his research impact is widely acknowledged. Through his extensive publications, leadership roles, and contributions to hydrology, Bonacci has solidified his reputation as a leading expert, earning respect and recognition from the global scientific community.

Research Skill

Ognjen Bonacci possesses exceptional research skills in hydrology and water resources management, with expertise in engineering hydrology, karst hydrology, ecohydrology, and sediment transport. His ability to analyze complex hydrological systems, assess climate change impacts, and develop sustainable water management strategies has made significant contributions to the field. He excels in hydrometric analysis, operational research, and transboundary water governance, integrating scientific methodologies with practical applications. His extensive publication record, including books and over 90 papers in leading scientific journals, showcases his proficiency in conducting high-impact research. As a reviewer for more than 400 scientific papers and an evaluator for prestigious funding organizations, he demonstrates critical analytical skills and a deep understanding of hydrological science. His interdisciplinary approach combines engineering, environmental science, and policy analysis, making his research highly valuable for addressing global water challenges. Bonacci’s dedication to advancing hydrological research continues to shape the future of water resource management.

Conclusion

Ognjen Bonacci is a highly distinguished researcher in hydrology, with an exceptional academic record, global recognition, and leadership in UNESCO programs. His high-impact publications, editorial roles, and national science awards make him a strong candidate for the Excellence in Research Award. While his expertise is primarily within hydrology, expanding into interdisciplinary applications and industry collaborations could further enhance his contribution to scientific innovation.

Publications Top Noted

  1. Changing climate both increases and decreases European river floods

    • Authors: G. Blöschl, J. Hall, A. Viglione, R.A.P. Perdigão, J. Parajka, B. Merz, D. Lun, …

    • Year: 2019

    • Citations: 1133

  2. Changing climate shifts timing of European floods

    • Authors: G. Blöschl, J. Hall, J. Parajka, R.A.P. Perdigão, B. Merz, B. Arheimer, …

    • Year: 2017

    • Citations: 954

  3. Karst hydrology: with special reference to the Dinaric karst

    • Authors: O. Bonacci

    • Year: 2012

    • Citations: 524

  4. Karst springs hydrographs as indicators of karst aquifers

    • Authors: O. Bonacci

    • Year: 1993

    • Citations: 359

  5. A framework for karst ecohydrology

    • Authors: O. Bonacci, T. Pipan, D.C. Culver

    • Year: 2009

    • Citations: 198

  6. Karst flash floods: an example from the Dinaric karst (Croatia)

    • Authors: O. Bonacci, I. Ljubenkov, T. Roje-Bonacci

    • Year: 2006

    • Citations: 181

  7. Analysis of the maximum discharge of karst springs

    • Authors: O. Bonacci

    • Year: 2001

    • Citations: 162

  8. Basic data on the hydrology of Lakes Ohrid and Prespa

    • Authors: C. Popovska, O. Bonacci

    • Year: 2007

    • Citations: 129

  9. Ground water behaviour in karst: example of the Ombla Spring (Croatia)

    • Authors: O. Bonacci

    • Year: 1995

    • Citations: 124

  10. Hydrological identification of drought

  • Authors: O. Bonacci

  • Year: 1993

  • Citations: 119

  1. Lake level prediction using feed forward and recurrent neural networks

  • Authors: B. Hrnjica, O. Bonacci

  • Year: 2019

  • Citations: 109

  1. Analysis of the water temperature regime of the Danube and its tributaries in Croatia

  • Authors: O. Bonacci, D. Trninić, T. Roje‐Bonacci

  • Year: 2008

  • Citations: 95

Ru Chen | Earth and Planetary Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Global Scholar Awards

Prof. Ru Chen | Earth and Planetary Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Tianjin University, China

Ru Chen, a Full Professor at Tianjin University, specializes in physical oceanography, focusing on ocean dynamics, mesoscale and submesoscale eddies, mixing effects, and geophysical fluid dynamics. With a Ph.D. from the MIT-WHOI Joint Program, he has held research and teaching positions at UCLA and Scripps Institution of Oceanography. He has secured multiple prestigious grants, including from the National Natural Science Foundation of China, and has received numerous awards for research, teaching, and service. His extensive publication record includes high-impact studies on ocean energetics, eddy mixing, and climate interactions. As an editor and mentor, he contributes significantly to academia. Strengths for the Best Researcher Award include his groundbreaking research, leadership, and academic contributions. Areas for improvement may include expanding interdisciplinary collaborations. Overall, his exceptional research, funding success, and academic influence make him a strong candidate for the award, recognizing his contributions to marine science and climate system studies.

Professional Profile 

Education

Ru Chen holds a Ph.D. in Physical Oceanography from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) – Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) Joint Program, which he completed in February 2013. His doctoral studies focused on ocean dynamics, mesoscale and submesoscale eddies, and their implications for the climate system. Prior to this, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Marine Science from Ocean University of China in July 2006, where he built a strong foundation in oceanography and geophysical fluid dynamics. His academic journey has equipped him with extensive expertise in ocean modeling, satellite observations, and theoretical formulations. Through rigorous research training at globally renowned institutions, he has developed a deep understanding of physical oceanography, enabling him to contribute significantly to the field. His educational background, combined with subsequent research experience, positions him as a leading expert in ocean dynamics and climate-related studies.

Professional Experience

Ru Chen has an extensive professional background in physical oceanography, with experience spanning top research institutions worldwide. Currently, he is a Full Professor at Tianjin University, China, a position he has held since July 2019. Before this, he worked as an Assistant Researcher at the University of California, Los Angeles (2017-2019) and as a Postdoctoral Scholar at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography (2013-2017), where he investigated ocean energetics and mesoscale eddies. His early career includes roles as a Research Assistant at the MIT-WHOI Joint Program (2007-2012) and at Ocean University of China (2006-2007), contributing to studies on ocean mixing and geophysical fluid dynamics. Throughout his career, he has been actively engaged in teaching and mentoring students while securing competitive research grants. His work has led to numerous high-impact publications and advancements in ocean modeling, making significant contributions to the understanding of ocean circulation and climate interactions.

Research Interest

Ru Chen’s research focuses on physical oceanography, particularly the role of the ocean in the climate system. His work integrates realistic and idealized ocean models, satellite observations, and theoretical formulations to investigate ocean dynamics. He specializes in mesoscale and submesoscale eddies, jets, and striations, exploring their mixing effects and broader implications for ocean energetics and climate variability. His research also delves into fundamental geophysical fluid dynamics, examining how ocean circulation interacts with atmospheric processes. A significant portion of his studies is dedicated to understanding ocean mixing processes, particularly in regions like the Kuroshio Extension, and improving parameterization techniques for ocean models. His contributions help refine climate predictions and advance knowledge on ocean-atmosphere interactions. By integrating observational data with numerical simulations, Ru Chen aims to enhance our understanding of oceanic processes, their impact on global climate systems, and their influence on long-term environmental changes.

Award and Honor

Ru Chen has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding contributions to research, teaching, and service in physical oceanography. He has been honored with multiple Research, Teaching, and Service Awards from the School of Marine Science and Technology at Tianjin University in 2023 and 2024. His excellence in education is further highlighted by the First-Class Teaching Award and Special Class Teaching Award in Tianjin. As a mentor, he has guided students to success, with his advisees winning the Best Master Thesis Award in 2022 and 2023. His research has also gained international recognition, including a Research Highlight by the U.S. Department of Energy in 2017. Additionally, he has received travel grants for prestigious conferences like the CLIVAR Open Science Conference. His contributions to academic governance and innovation have earned him the Golden Idea Award at Tianjin University, along with editorial recognition for his work on ocean research publications.

Research Skill

Ru Chen possesses a diverse and advanced set of research skills in physical oceanography, integrating theoretical modeling, observational analysis, and computational simulations. His expertise includes developing and applying realistic and idealized ocean models to study mesoscale and submesoscale eddies, ocean mixing, and geophysical fluid dynamics. He is proficient in analyzing satellite observations and in situ oceanographic data to validate and refine theoretical frameworks. Additionally, he has strong computational skills, employing numerical simulations and machine learning techniques to predict oceanic processes such as eddy dynamics and energy fluxes. His ability to link theoretical concepts with practical applications allows him to make significant contributions to climate system research. With extensive experience in interdisciplinary collaborations, Ru Chen effectively integrates ocean physics with broader climate studies. His research skills are further demonstrated through high-impact publications, successful grant acquisitions, and contributions to academic journals, making him a leading expert in his field.

Conclusion

Ru Chen is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award due to extensive contributions in physical oceanography, strong publication and funding records, multiple academic recognitions, and mentorship roles. His expertise in ocean dynamics, eddy mixing, and climate interactions makes him a leading researcher in the field. Further expansion into global collaborations and applied research could further solidify his standing as an influential scientist.

Publications Top Noted

  • Geng, Q., Su, X., Chen, R., Huang, G., & Shi, W. (2025). Kinetic Energy Cascade in the Frequency Domain from Satellite Products. Remote Sensing. DOI: 10.3390/rs17050877

  • Zhang, G., Chen, R., Li, L., Wei, H., & Sun, S. (2023). Global trends in surface eddy mixing from satellite altimetry. Frontiers in Marine Science. DOI: 10.3389/fmars.2023.1157049

  • Liu, M., Chen, R., Guan, W., Zhang, H., & Jing, T. (2023). Nonlocality of scale-dependent eddy mixing at the Kuroshio Extension. Frontiers in Marine Science. DOI: 10.3389/fmars.2023.1137216

  • Fan, Y., Liu, W., Zhang, P., Chen, R., & Li, L. (2023). North Atlantic Oscillation contributes to the subpolar North Atlantic cooling in the past century. Climate Dynamics. DOI: 10.1007/s00382-023-06847-y

  • Liu, M., Chen, R., Flierl, G. R., Guan, W., Zhang, H., & Geng, Q. (2023). Scale-dependent eddy diffusivities at the Kuroshio Extension: A particle-based estimate and comparison to theory. Journal of Physical Oceanography. DOI: 10.1175/jpo-d-22-0223.1

  • Zhang, G., Chen, R., Li, X., Li, L., Wei, H., & Guan, W. (2023). Temporal variability of global surface eddy diffusivities: Estimates and machine learning prediction. Journal of Physical Oceanography. DOI: 10.1175/jpo-d-22-0251.1

  • Tang, G., Deng, Z., Chen, R., & Xiu, F. (2023). Effects of the Kuroshio on internal tides in the Luzon Strait: A model study. Frontiers in Marine Science. DOI: 10.3389/fmars.2022.995601

  • Damien, P., Bianchi, D., McWilliams, J., Kessouri, F., Deutsch, C., Chen, R., & Renault, L. (2023). Enhanced Biogeochemical Cycling Along the U.S. West Coast Shelf. Global Biogeochemical Cycles. DOI: 10.1029/2022gb007572