Dr Heidi Kreibich (Germany) is the recipient of the 2024 Volker Medal (International Hydrology Prize) of IAHS/UNESCO/WMO
Dr. Heidi Kreibich at the Helmholtz Centre Potsdam, GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences, Section Hydrology, in Germany, is the recipient of the 2024 Volker Medal in recognition of her steady and distinguished contribution in advancing the hydrological sciences across disciplines, in particular to the analysis and management of flood risks in dynamic human-water systems.
The Volker Medal was presented in November 2024 during the 9th IWRM, 14th STAHY and 1st EBHE meeting in Florianópolis, Brazil.
Heidi Kreibich receiving the award from Berit Arheimer (IAHS President) and Jean-Marie Kileshye Onema (IAHS Secretary General).
Citation for Dr. Heidi Kreibich by Professor Salvatore Grimaldi
In recognition of her steady and distinguished contribution in advancing the hydrological sciences across disciplines, in particular to the analysis and management of flood risks in dynamic human-water systems.
Heidi Kreibich studied in Germany and following the Master (German Diplom) in Environmental Engineering at Technical University Berlin, and the PhD at the Philipps-University of Marburg, currently, she is the Head of working group “Flood risk and climate adaptation” at the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ), Potsdam.
Heidi conducts cutting-edge research that seeks solutions to societal challenges. She has pioneered the development of the research field of flood damage assessment, modelling and mitigation and its application for the benefit of society. Her outstanding contributions to hydrological science and applications include: 1) the development of probabilistic multi-variable damage modelling, including contributions to impact-based forecasting, 2) the elaboration of the cost assessment cycle for continuous integrated cost assessment in risk management, and 3) the development and promotion of paired event analysis.
Heidi is a recognised leader in the science and practice of hydrology and her outstanding volunteer activities for the IAHS are remarkable.
Therefore, it is my absolute pleasure and great privilege to award the 2024 Volker medal to Dr. Heidi Kreibich.