Ming Li

I have dedicated the past 5 years to atmospheric research, a journey that began when I earned my PhD in Instrument Science and Technology in 2021 from the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China. During my doctoral studies, I spent my final two years as a visiting scholar at George Washington University through a joint program, working under two supervisors from both China and the United States. After completing my PhD, I worked as a postdoc at Washington University before joining the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR) in 2024 as a Research Scientist 4. At UCAR, I work on behalf of the National Science Foundation to manage the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR). My expertise centers on remote sensing for Earth observation, where I use satellite images and signals to retrieve critical Earth resources such as soil moisture and precipitation. I specialize in microwave theory and radiometry, applying these techniques to advance our understanding of atmospheric phenomena. In 2025, I achieved what I consider my most notable professional accomplishment by developing the first sea ice detection result using CYGNSS data, the most popular commercial GNSS reflectometry data in the United States. Beyond my research, I serve as Vice Chair of Women in Radio Science, a chapter within the International Radio Science Union, where I work to support and inspire other women in the field. My recovery from ACL surgery after a skiing accident has also allowed me to inspire fellow skiers and colleagues facing similar challenges, including my chair Christina, a research scientist from Shanghai who gained confidence from hearing my recovery story.