Andrew C. Fowler
Andrew has made substantial theoretical advances to understanding a diverse set of processes governing the behaviour of glaciers and ice sheets. He has made significant contributions to the understanding of glacier sliding, subglacial hydrology, subglacial bedform evolution, glacier surging, ice sheet modelling, ice-stream dynamics, frost heave and periglacial processes leading to pattern formation, cryospheric waves, ice-age climate cycles, Dansgaard-Oeschger events, and subglacial outburst floods. In 1978 he produced the first formal derivation of what is known as shallow ice models for glacier flow.
His theories are mathematically rigorous, but also have physical sense and inform real system observations. His advances arise from clear thinking, often outside the box, and while many are still ahead of their time, they support continuing progress and have a long-lasting impact on glaciological understanding and direction. He has a strong record of mentoring of both graduate students, many of whom are themselves today’s glaciological leaders, and also through broadly and generously sharing his ideas and knowledge.
In view of each of these bases, but above all his groundbreaking and inspirational science, the Council of the International Glaciological Society has decided to award the Seligman Crystal to Andrew Fowler.
On behalf of the Awards Committee of the International Glaciological Society
Ian Allison, Chair
