University of Arizona hydrologist Laura Condon awarded prestigious 2025 James B. Macelwane Medal
Dr. Laura Condon, professor of Hydrology and Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Arizona, has been selected to receive the prestigious 2025 James B. Macelwane Medal.
The medal is given annually to three to five early career scientists in recognition of their significant contributions to Earth and space science. Nominees are selected for the medal based on their depth and breadth of research, impact, creativity as well as service, outreach, and diversity.
Condon is being honored for her pioneering work in understanding and simulating groundwater-surface water interactions under human influence. Her research has reshaped how scientists view groundwater’s role in the hydrologic cycle and its critical connection to climate, ecosystems, and human water use.
"It is such an honor to receive this award," said Dr. Condon. "I am grateful to my amazing family, mentors, mentees, and collaborators who have supported me and my research."
Condon's landmark achievement was co-leading the first continental-scale integrated hydrologic model, coupling subsurface and surface water systems across the United States. This breakthrough expanded our understanding of groundwater’s active role in regulating energy balance and evapotranspiration, showing that ignoring groundwater can distort future projections of water availability.
Building on this foundation, Condon has turned her attention to human-driven hydrologic change. Her team has compiled the most comprehensive dataset of U.S. reservoir operations, enabled national-scale studies on drought resilience, and spearheaded machine learning approaches to improve water management.
Beyond research, Condon is a dedicated educator, communicator, and leader in open science. She has developed widely used teaching tools, including a digital sandtank model and an interactive platform for exploring U.S. hydrologic data. At the University of Arizona, her Water Whys program helps students create visual explanations of hydrologic concepts for use by broadcast meteorologists, bridging science and public understanding.
Condon’s expertise also informs national water policy. She has contributed to the National Climate Assessment and advised the White House President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology on groundwater issues, ensuring that cutting-edge science supports real-world decision-making.
“Laura is redefining how we understand and manage water in a changing world,” said Dr. Peter Troch, head of Hydrology & Atmospheric Sciences at the U of A. “This honor reflects not only her scientific brilliance, but also her vision and dedication to connecting science with society.”
To learn more about Dr. Condon and her research, click here.