Research from Wales Celebrated as Society Reveals its 2024 Medallists
We are thrilled to announce the recipients of this year’s Learned Society of Wales medals. This is always a highlight of our year, an opportunity to celebrate the superb achievements of established and early career researchers from Wales.
The medals celebrate the full range of disciplines. The subject specialisms of this year’s medallists range from environmental protection to primary school education, the criminal justice system to feminist studies.
This year’s recipients received their medals at a ceremony at the Senedd in Cardiff, where they were joined by almost 100 guests.
We’re especially grateful to David Rees MS for sponsoring the event, South Wales Institute of Engineers Educational Trust (SWIEET) for their sponsorship of the Menelaus Medal and the Welsh Government Department of Science for sponsoring the Frances Hoggan and Hugh Owen Medals.
This year’s medallists are:
Professor Susan Baker: Hoggan Medal
Celebrating outstanding research by women in STEMM
Professor Baker’s work has had a profound international impact in addressing the challenges of climate and environmental change. More details.
“This recognition reflects our shared responsibility for safeguarding the planet for future generations.”
The Hoggan Medal is sponsored by Welsh Government.
Professor Stuart Taylor: Menelaus Medal
Celebrating excellence in engineering and technology
Professor Taylor has made ground-breaking contributions to heterogeneous catalysis, influencing energy, sustainability, green chemistry, and environmental protection. More details.
“It is a privilege and a great honour to be awarded the 2024 LSW Menelaus Medal.”
The Menelaus Medal is sponsored by SWIEET.
Professor Gary Beauchamp: Hugh Owen Medal
Celebrating outstanding educational research in Wales
Professor Beauchamp has had a long and distinguished career in education research in Wales. His work is deeply embedded in, and has a positive impact on, children’s education in the country. More details.
“I am honoured to receive the Hugh Owen Medal. It represents the culmination of the support, challenge and inspiration I have received from many colleagues.”
The Hoggan Medal is sponsored by Welsh Government.
Dillwyn Medals
Celebrating outstanding early career researchers in Wales.
Dr Alix Beeston: Humanities and Creative Arts
Dr Beeston’s work provides richly detailed readings of literary and visual texts which are positioned in ways that move forward feminist, queer, and critical race theories. More details.
“Winning the Dillwyn Medal seven years after I immigrated from Australia to Wales is humbling and affirming for me.”
Dr Laura Richardson: STEMM
Dr Richardson’s outstanding contributions to the field of marine science exemplify her distinction, leadership, and commitment to societal impact. Her work has garnered significant international attention and demonstrates accomplishment in both research and teaching. More details.
“My heartfelt thanks go to my science collaborators, mentors, and friends, who have contributed along the way.”
Dr Roxanna Dehaghani: Social Sciences, Education and Business
Dr Dehaghani is a leading expert on safeguards for vulnerable people in the criminal justice system. More details.
“Thank you to the Learned Society of Wales for this wonderful award. I hope to continue both working to improve the criminal justice process for vulnerable people, and supporting and encouraging others to make a positive impact in the world.”