Honorary Member

Jon Ove Hagen

Dr. Jon Ove Hagen (University of Oslo) has had a distinguished career spanning over 40 years, profoundly influencing Norwegian and Arctic glaciology.

Dr. Hagen’s work has provided critical insights into glacier-climate interactions, Arctic glacier sensitivity to climate change, and glacier dynamics. He significantly advanced glaciological research in Svalbard, playing a pivotal role in initiating many of the long-term mass-balance programs, which provide valuable data records to the scientific community. He also spearheaded the first comprehensive inventory of Svalbard glaciers, providing crucial foundational data that have underpinned numerous subsequent studies.

Dr. Hagen has an outstanding record of leadership and fostering international collaboration, having helped to initiate and coordinate several large international research projects focused on the Arctic. He has been deeply engaged in international service, holding officer positions in several professional organizations, and was one of the founders of the International Arctic Science Committee’s working group on Arctic Glaciology, serving as its chair from 1994 to 2003.

Dr. Hagen is an inspiring mentor and educator, with many former mentees establishing successful careers. He has trained numerous students through courses in Oslo and at UNIS in Svalbard, and played a pivotal role in establishing collaborations between Norway and various other countries, aimed at fostering opportunities for early-career scientists. Under his leadership, the glaciology research group at the University of Oslo has become one of the largest in Europe.

Dr. Hagen’s scientific contributions, mentorship, and leadership have profoundly enhanced Norway’s visibility in glaciological research. His work, particularly in Svalbard, has had a significant impact, and his generous and collaborative approach has had a long-lasting impact on the field.

On behalf of the Awards Committee of the International Glaciological Society
Sue Cooke, Chair