Professor Bethan Davies was nominated for the award in recognition of her outstanding service through her work to make the science of glaciology more accessible and inclusive.

The Richardson Medal is one of IGS’ most distinguished honours and is awarded to a single person who has provided outstanding service to the International Glaciological Society and/or to the field of glaciology. Award-winners are nominated by IGS members.

A major part of Professor Davies’ outreach work is through the website www.antarcticglaciers.org which the IGS said is “one of the most widely used and effective resources in glaciological communication”. 

The website was set up by Professor Davies to enable greater public understanding of snow and ice research, aiming to inspire young people and school children with geology and geomorphology, as well as providing teachers with engaging, original content that they can use in lesson planning. It has had more than 4 million page views and was awarded a Certificate of Excellence in Geological Education by the UK Geologists’ Association.

The website also covers Women in STEM, discussing topics such as the history of women in Antarctica and menstruation in the field – which has led to improvements in the way in which Newcastle and other university Geography departments support their students.

Professor Davies’ award also recognises her work to tackle the lack of diversity in polar science. She has successfully run several large events for young people from a range of backgrounds to encourage them to consider moving into polar science and ensure the field can become more representative. She has hosted Polar Pride events for several years, celebrating LGBTQ+ polar scientists and providing a safe space for community members to share their experiences.

Professor Davies said: “I'm beyond delighted to be awarded the Richardson Medal by the International Glaciological Society for services to glaciology. It is a huge honour.”

Professor Davies has also made a significant impact in engaging with policy makers and has advised governments on research infrastructure, contributed to a number of government inquiries, and worked with the Royal Navy and the Polar Regions department of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).

She has co-authored several policy briefs addressing climate change impacts on Antarctica, including her current research on water resource management in the Andes which demonstrates her commitment to multidisciplinary collaboration and the inclusion of local stakeholders.

Professor Kyle Grayson, Head of the School of Geography, Politics and Sociology, said: “It is brilliant that Professor Davies’ commitments to public engagement, knowledge sharing, and equality, diversity, and inclusion have been formally commended by peers in her field.”

The International Glaciological Society was founded in 1936 to provide a focus for people interested in practical aspects of snow and ice, encourage scientific research and increase the flow of glaciological ideas and information.