WT’s Hiranuma Wins Presidential Honor

Copy by Chip Chandler, 806-651-2124, cchandler@wtamu.edu

CANYON, Texas — A West Texas A&M University professor was one of nearly 400 scientists and engineers who was awarded the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers.

Dr. Naruki Hiranuma, associate professor of environmental science in the Paul Engler College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, was honored Jan. 14 during President Joseph R. Biden’s last week in office.

The award is considered to be the highest honor bestowed by the U.S. government on outstanding scientists and engineers early in their careers.

“This is a team victory,” Hiranuma said. “I am grateful for all of my current and past research group members, colleagues and people who continuously provided administrative support for us. Together, we showed that nationally impactful research can be conducted at a rural university, and I am humbled that the National Science Foundation recognized our Arctic climate research-education integration career project for this award.”

Established by President Clinton in 1996, PECASE recognizes scientists and engineers who show exceptional potential for leadership early in their research careers. The award recognizes innovative and far-reaching developments in science and technology, expands awareness of careers in science and engineering, recognizes the scientific missions of participating agencies, enhances connections between research and impacts on society, and highlights the importance of science and technology for our nation’s future.

“Dr. Hiranuma’s remarkable dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and inspiring the next generation of innovators has earned him this prestigious recognition,” said Dr. Angela Spaulding, vice president for research and compliance and dean of the Graduate School. “Receiving the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers is a testament to his exceptional contributions, unwavering curiosity, and tireless pursuit of excellence.”

Hiranuma was nominated for the award by the National Science Foundation Directorate for Engineering.

“Usually this award is given to scientists at R1 research institutions,” said Dr. Kevin Pond, dean of the Engler College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences. “The fact that Dr. Hiranuma received this award is a tribute to him as a scientist and to WT as an institution that provides freedom and support for scientists to flourish. We are extremely proud of Naruki as a faculty member and alumnus.”

Hiranuma, a native of Japan, earned his master’s degree from WT and his Ph.D. in atmospheric science from Texas A&M University. He joined the WT faculty in 2016. Previously, he was the recipient of the 2018 Early Career Research Program Award, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, and the 2020 National Science Foundation CAREER Award.

Hiranuma’s research interests include atmospheric aerosol-cloud-climate interactions, precipitation, and assessment of aerosol particles’ impact on public health. He and his students have conducted climate research worldwide.

Recruiting and retaining the best and brightest faculty members and encouraging regionally impactful research are both key components of the University’s long-range plan, WT 125: From the Panhandle to the World.

That plan is fueled by the historic One West comprehensive fundraising campaign, which reached its initial $125 million goal 18 months after publicly launching in September 2021. The campaign’s new goal is to reach $175 million by 2025; currently, it has raised more than $160 million.

About West Texas A&M University

WT, a Regional Research University, is redefining excellence in Canyon, Texas, on a 342-acre residential campus, as well as the Harrington Academic Hall WTAMU Amarillo Center in downtown Amarillo. Established in 1910, the University has been part of The Texas A&M University System since 1990. WT, a Hispanic Serving Institution since 2016, boasts an enrollment of more than 9,000 and offers 66 undergraduate degree programs, including eight associate degrees; and 44 graduate degrees, including an integrated bachelor’s and master’s degree, a specialist degree and two doctoral degrees. The University is also home to the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, the largest history museum in the state and the home of one of the Southwest’s finest art collections. The Buffaloes are a member of the NCAA Division II Lone Star Conference and offers 14 men’s and women’s athletics programs.

Photo: Dr. Naruki Hiranuma, associate professor of environmental science in the Paul Engler College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, was the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers Jan. 14 during President Joseph R. Biden’s last week in office.

—WT—