The European Geosciences Union (EGU), Europe’s premier geosciences union, dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in the Earth, planetary, and space sciences for the benefit of humanity, worldwide, has announced it will honour a University of Aberdeen professor at a prestigious award ceremony next year.
Professor Pete Smith will receive the 2017 Philippe Duchaufour medal for his outstanding contributions to understanding the role of the Soil System in the Earth’s biogeochemical cycles, with special attention to carbon emissions and sequestration, and for his contribution to sustainable agriculture under the threat of climate change.
The medal was established by the Division of Soil System Sciences in recognition of the scientific achievements of Philippe Duchaufour and is awarded by the European Geosciences Union for distinguished contributions to soil science.
Professor Smith’s research is key to understanding soil carbon dynamics and the interaction between the soil and the atmosphere, and the EGU highlight his ground breaking research on the effects of soil management on greenhouse gas fluxes.
The award citation goes on to state that: “Professor Smith combines the highest scientific achievements with a very strong commitment to society, as his service to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change shows. Pete, moreover, is a very approachable scientist and he serves as a true example for the next generation of scientists. Pete Smith demonstrates scientific excellence, devotion to society and openness in scientific discussion, which collectively characterize a truly great scientist.”
Professor Smith said: “I am truly honoured to have received this prestigious award from the European Geosciences Union.
“It is extremely humbling to be recognised by your peers for contribution to your chosen field, and I am delighted that my research is thought of so highly. I work alongside many tremendous colleagues which allows me to carry out my work at this level.”
Professor Smith will receive his award at the EGU 2017 General Assembly, which will take place in Vienna on 23–28 April.