A Belfast native is to be honoured for his outstanding contribution to the field of earth and space science.
Michael B. McElroy, who was educated at Queen’s University Belfast, is to receive the William Bowie Medal - the highest honour of the American Geophysical Union (AGU).
The scientist, currently the Gilbert Butler professor of environmental studies at Harvard University, will receive the award at a ceremony in December.
He said it is “an immense honour to be recognised by my peers for my work and scholarship”.
With a distinguished career spanning over six decades, he began his studies in his home city of Belfast.
He earned an BA in applied mathematics, graduating from QUB in 1960 and going on to earn a PhD in applied mathematics in 1962.
He joined Harvard University in 1970 and has since held various posts such as director of the Centre for Earth and Planetary Physics and founding chair of the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences.
Professor McElroy has been described as a “pioneering force in atmospheric research”, focusing on the causes and impact of human-induced stratospheric ozone depletion and climate change.
More recently his research has broadened to include energy sciences and addressing the decarbonization imperative in rapidly developing countries such as China and India as well as high-income ones like the US.
He has authored more than 300 journal articles, four books and three edited volumes.
He holds an honorary doctor of science from QUB.
In 1993, he founded the Harvard-China project on energy, economy and environment and has dedicated more than 30 years to growing US/China scholarly collaborations.
Under his leadership, the project conducts rigorous, peer-reviewed research on the global challenges of climate change, air quality, energy systems, economic development, environmental health and policy.
👏Michael B. McElroy is the 2024 recipient of the William Bowie Medal, the highest honor of @theAGU. With a distinguished career spanning over six decades, McElroy is a pioneering force in atmospheric research - read more: https://t.co/ybXXmFoCNc https://t.co/PeAcKPHrCY pic.twitter.com/iAwCm5108O
— Harvard-China Project on Energy, Econ & Envt (@harvard_cn) September 18, 2024
His dedication to advancing earth and planetary sciences and scientifically-informed policy is evident in his service roles, such as as advising NASA, National Academy of Sciences and the US Congress.
The William Bowie Medal from the AGU annually honours a senior scientist’s contribution to the field of earth and space science and recognises their commitment to fostering collaboration in research far beyond the scope of their professional duties.
Professor McElroy said: “It is an immense honour to be recognised by my peers for my work and scholarship.
“When I look back on my career, of course, I am proud of the research, teaching, and the opportunity I’ve had to shape young minds.
“What also stands out are the collaborations I’ve had with colleagues across Harvard, China, and the world, and the enduring connections and friendships I’ve built.
“Ultimately, we are all in this fight against climate change together.”
