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Indian-origin scientist elected as fellow of American Meteorological Society
Mona Behl broadened participation in marine sciences, mentored leaders, and advanced national and international organizations.
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Pranavi Sharma - Wed, 01, Oct 2025
- 23:30 EDT
- 28
Mona Behl / University of Georgia
Mona Behl, associate director of Georgia Sea Grant and senior public service associate at the University of Georgia, has been elected a 2026 Fellow of the American Meteorological Society (AMS). The fellowship is among the highest honors of the society and recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to atmospheric and ocean sciences.
Behl, who is of Indian origin, earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in physics from Panjab University in India and a doctorate in physical oceanography from Florida State University. She has also been recognized nationally as an award-winning teacher.
Speaking to the University of Georgia, Behl said her career has been shaped by a commitment to broadening participation in coastal and marine sciences, strengthening community resilience to environmental change, and mentoring young scientists and leaders.
She has held leadership roles beyond her university, serving as an elected Councilor for AMS from 2022 to 2025, and for The Oceanography Society, where she helped guide the direction of professional organizations that connect researchers, practitioners, and educators.
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Mark Risse, director of Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant, told the University of Georgia, “Mona has a gift for turning ideas into programs that create real impact. Her leadership and mentorship strengthen science and communities in Georgia and across the nation.”
Behl co-founded the AMS Early Career Leadership Academy in 2019, inspired by her experience in the Institute of Georgia Environmental Leadership program. Now in its sixth year, the academy has trained hundreds of early-career professionals in weather, water, and climate sciences. She also co-founded Sea Grant’s Community Engaged Internship Program, which provides undergraduates with place-based learning opportunities.
Her influence within Georgia extends through her leadership of Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant’s research program, where she brings together experts from universities statewide to address challenges facing coastal ecosystems and communities. She has also established programs such as the State Fellowship and Research Traineeship to prepare young professionals for careers in marine science, policy, and coastal resource management.
Nationally, Behl serves on boards and committees including the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, and the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research, contributing to initiatives that support coastal resilience and public engagement.
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