Liu Dongyan, a professor from the State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, was appointed as the new chair of the IMBeR Scientific Steering Committee on May 29, 2024. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Liu Dongyan, a professor from the State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research at East China Normal University, has been appointed as the chair of the Scientific Steering Committee of the Intergovernmental Marine Biosphere Research program.

Recognized for her exceptional contributions to marine sciences, Prof. Liu is set to bring a wealth of expertise and a distinguished background in marine ecology to her new role, said the biosphere research program in its official announcement of Prof. Liu's appointment.

Prof. Liu's research endeavors have primarily focused on delving into the biophysical and physiological mechanisms through which algae adapt to evolving environments, such as eutrophication and warming, while also working toward the mitigation of algal blooms. With a portfolio boasting over 200 peer-reviewed research articles, her groundbreaking work on massive macroalgal blooms in the Yellow Sea has provided crucial insights for scientists and environmental management professionals alike.

She and her research team have collaborated extensively with domestic and international researchers. Through the integration of multidisciplinary approaches such as satellite and field observations, genetic, physiological, and isotopic analyses, as well as the application of ecological models, they have systematically investigated the causes, formation, growth, and spread of green tides in the Yellow Sea. Her research has provided significant research methods and academic insights for addressing the global challenge of large-scale floating macroalgal blooms.

In recognition of her contributions to marine sciences, Prof. Liu became the first Chinese scientists to be honored with the prestigious 2023 Ruth Patrick Award by the Association for the Sciences of Limnology and Oceanography. Her commitment to advancing scientific knowledge extends beyond her new role as chair of the Steering Committee; she currently serves as the deputy director of scientific research at the key laboratory and holds positions on the editorial boards of esteemed academic journals, including Limnology and Oceanography-Letters.