Professor Alan MacDonald Receives International Hydrogeology Award at World Groundwater Congress
Scientific Distinction in Hydrogeology
BUDAPEST, Hungary — Professor Alan MacDonald, Head of Groundwater at the British Geological Survey (BGS), has been awarded the Presidents' Award by the International Association of Hydrogeologists (IAH) during the 53rd World Groundwater Congress. The annual award recognizes individual scientists who have made significant international contributions to the understanding, protection, and sustainable management of groundwater resources for global environmental and human benefit.
The award presentation took place in Budapest, celebrating Professor MacDonald's three-decade career in hydrogeology, international scientific research, and academic leadership.
Decades of International Water Security Research
Professor MacDonald began his career with the British Geological Survey in 1992, subsequently serving with WaterAid in Nigeria before returning to BGS, where he was appointed lead for international groundwater research in 2011 and Head of Groundwater in 2022. In his current role, he oversees a department of 30 scientists conducting research projects across more than 20 countries.
His primary research focus has centered on water security, groundwater resilience to climate change, and poverty reduction, particularly within Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. Working in close collaboration with international development partners including WaterAid, UNICEF, and governmental ministries, MacDonald has spearheaded major research consortia evaluating the long-term functionality of rural water supplies and sustainable aquifer utilization.
Published Impact and Ongoing Initiatives
Over the course of his research career, Professor MacDonald has authored several books, over 150 peer-reviewed scientific papers, and more than 100 research reports for the British Geological Survey. His work has helped establish evidence-based frameworks for assessing groundwater availability and resilience across vulnerable regions facing severe climate variations.
Upon receiving the honor in Budapest, BGS Press noted that the award reflects decades of sustained scientific effort aimed at advancing open hydrogeological research and securing accessible, clean water for underserved populations worldwide.