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Inge de Graaf receives Early Career Award from KNAW

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November 21, 2023

Inge de Graaf, associate professor of the Water Systems and Global Change group, has been honoured with an Early Career Award. This award, presented by the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), comes with a prize of €15,000 and a specially designed art object. Congratulations!

De Graaf's research focuses on the future availability of freshwater, a challenge exacerbated by the growing global population and climate change. Through an innovative model that links groundwater dynamics to surface water, she demonstrates that groundwater extractions have a significant impact on the environment. Understanding the interaction between groundwater levels, agricultural irrigation, and rivers is particularly crucial. This research highlights the challenge of sustainably producing enough food on a global scale.

De Graaf expresses her gratitude for the award, stating, "It is very encouraging to see that not only my direct colleagues and experts in the field, but others recognise the value of our research as well. This is truly motivating!" As for her plans with the prize money, she says, "I intend to use the funds to visit other research groups to strengthen my own research and develop new ideas. Additionally, I hope to support young researchers in their own research and careers."

About the KNAW Early Career Award

Twelve young researchers from various scientific fields each receive a KNAW Early Career Award. This award, bestowed annually, recognises their exceptional achievements with a prize of 15,000 euros and a unique piece of artwork. The KNAW Early Career Award is being presented for the fifth time this year. The laureates represent diverse scientific disciplines, embodying a wide spectrum of research areas.