Dr Anja Schmidt, courtesy Gabriella Bocchetti
Dr Anja Schmidt has been recognised by the American Geophysical Union (AGU) for significant contributions to the geophysical sciences by an outstanding early career scientist.
The AGU 2021 James B. Macelwane Medal is awarded annually to three to five early career scientists in recognition of their significant contributions to the Earth and space sciences community. Schmidt’s selection was based on the depth and breadth of her research, and its impact and creativity. Other criteria included service, outreach, and diversity.
Schmidt is an Interdisciplinary Lecturer in Climate Modelling jointly affiliated with the Departments of Chemistry and Geography. She combines expertise in atmospheric science, climate modelling, and volcanology to advance the current understanding of volcanic impacts and hazards. Her recent collaborations have demonstrated that human-caused climate change will have important consequences for how volcanic gases interact with the atmosphere, and that early human populations were sheltered from the worst effects of a massive volcanic eruption 74,000 years ago.
Schmidt said: "I feel extremely honoured to receive the James B. Macelwane Medal from AGU. I feel even more honoured when looking at the list of past awardees - several of whom are close colleagues I collaborated with in the past and who had a substantial impact on my career. I truly believe that collaboratively we can achieve and discover more."
Schmidt and other honourees will receive their medals at the AGU Fall Meeting in New Orleans in December, which will be held online and in-person. Schmidt will also be made an AGU Fellow, a prestigious honour for an early career scientist.