Dr. Andrey Khlystov and Dr. Nathan Chellman of the Desert Research Institute were recognized on Mar. 11 with top honors from the Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents for their achievements in atmospheric and hydrologic sciences.
These awards highlight the significant contributions made by researchers at the Desert Research Institute, which functions as a research arm of the Nevada System of Higher Education, according to the official website. The institute conducts research projects spanning all seven continents and seeks to advance environmental sciences aimed at enhancing lives and promoting sustainability, as reported by the official website.
Dr. Khlystov received the Regents’ Distinguished Career Award for his work in atmospheric science, including innovations in aerosol characterization instruments that have been commercialized globally. His research has addressed issues such as electronic cigarette emissions and wildfire aerosols, with findings that have implications for air quality, climate, and public health. “I am deeply honored to receive this award,” Dr. Khlystov said. “My sincere gratitude goes to my colleagues at DRI whose exceptional contributions and collaborative spirit were instrumental in the research that led to this recognition. I look forward to continuing and growing such partnerships in the future.” Naresh Kumar, Ph.D., Executive Director of DRI’s Division of Atmospheric Sciences, said: “Dr. Khlystov exemplifies the excellence and impact that the NSHE Regents’ Researcher Award recognizes, combining groundbreaking research achievements with dedicated mentorship and substantial contributions to Nevada’s academic community. His work has not only advanced scientific understanding but has also elevated Nevada’s international profile in atmospheric science and health impacts research.”
Dr. Chellman was awarded the Jason Geddes Rising Researcher Award for his early-career accomplishments in hydrologic sciences, particularly his work analyzing ice cores from around the world to study historical climatic conditions. He has published over 50 peer-reviewed articles cited more than 3,500 times according to Google Scholar, with features in major journals and media outlets such as National Geographic and PBS productions. “I’m humbled and honored to receive this award,” said Dr. Chellman. “I’m very proud of the research we do here at DRI… It has been a great place to work and I hope to continue and expand the scope of my research in the coming years.” Vic Etyemezian, Ph.D., Vice President for Research at DRI, said: “Nathan is a great example of a highly successful early career scientist at DRI… he has done a terrific job balancing ongoing needs… with requirements of keeping accomplishments at forefront through publications and outreach efforts.”
The Desert Research Institute relies on external funding secured by its faculty for projects; it houses over 40 specialized laboratories supporting both global research initiatives and educational outreach programs for K-12 teachers across Nevada through professional development opportunities as outlined on its official website.
Looking ahead, both scientists plan to continue their research while contributing further to education through teaching graduate courses, mentoring students locally and nationally, hosting visiting researchers, organizing interdisciplinary workshops, and engaging with public outreach platforms.
