Professor Chris Davies is 2024 AGU William Gilbert Award recipient

The Professor of Theoretical Geophysics and Deputy Director at the Leeds Institute for Fluid Dynamics has been awarded for his outstanding contributions to Earth sciences.

The William Gilbert Award is given annually to one honoree in recognition of outstanding work in magnetism of Earth materials and of the Earth and planets, including geomagnetism, paleomagnetism and electromagnetism. 

Professor Davies’s research focuses on Earth’s deep interior dynamics and evolution. He designs and implements theoretical and numerical models to describe and analyse the processes of the Earth’s core. 

One of his current research projects, ‘Earth’s core as a layered system,’ aims to create a new framework for analysing the core's layers. 

It’ll use the new framework to contribute to the understanding of the origins of Earth’s magnetic field.

Earlier this year, Professor Davies won the 2024 Price Medal for his studies on the transport properties of the Earth’s core. 

He redefined the electrical and thermal conductivity of the Earth’s outer core, leading to profound consequences for our understanding of the thermal history of the Earth.

Outstanding contributions to our understanding of the Earth's core

Professor Tim Wright, Director of Research and Innovation in the School of Earth and Environment, said "Congratulations to Chris on this fantastic award. It recognises his outstanding contributions to our understanding of the Earth's core – one of the most complex and important parts of the Earth system."   

AGU, the world's largest Earth and space science association, celebrates individuals and teams through its annual Honors and Recognition program for their accomplishments in research, education, science communication and outreach. 

Professor Davies joins a distinguished group of scientists, leaders and communicators recognised by AGU for advancing science. 

The honorees transform our understanding of the world, impacted our everyday lives, improved our communities and contributed to solutions for a sustainable future. 

Each honoree reflects AGU's vision for a thriving, sustainable and equitable future supported by scientific discovery, innovation and action. 

Professor Davies will be recognized at AGU24, which will convene more than 25,000 attendees from over 100 countries in Washington, D.C. and online everywhere on 9-13 December 2024. 

Reflecting the theme "What's Next for Science" at AGU24, the Honors Reception will recognize groundbreaking achievements that illustrate science's continual advancement, inspiring the AGU community with their stories and successes.