Professor Ellen E. Martin Elected American Geophysical Union Fellow
Renowned geoscientist joins esteemed 2023 AGU Class of Fellows
In a recent announcement, paleoceanographer Ellen E. Martin has been elected as an American Geophysical Union (AGU) Fellow, joining 53 other individuals in the 2023 Class of Fellows. AGU, the world’s largest Earth and space sciences association, annually recognizes a select number of individuals for its highest honors. Since 1962, the AGU Union Fellows Committee has selected less than 0.1% of its members as new Fellows, making this a highly esteemed honor.
Martin was selected as a Fellow for the “pioneering development and application of geochemical proxies that have transformed our understanding of climate evolution on a global scale.” Her election is a testament to her remarkable scientific achievements, dedication to advancing the frontiers of science, and exemplary leadership in the field. She also embodies AGU’s vision of a thriving, sustainable, and equitable future powered by discovery, innovation, and action. AGU Fellows conduct themselves with integrity, respect, and collaboration while creating deep engagement in education, diversity, and outreach. Martin’s commitment to these principles underscores her selection among AGU’s esteemed Fellows.
Martin, who joined the UF faculty in 1994, is a globally recognized expert known for her groundbreaking work on geochemical proxies, which has significantly advanced our understanding of global climate evolution. Her pioneering research on isotopic proxies in marine sediments has illuminated the patterns and pathways of ocean circulation, as well as the sources and changes in weathering processes over time, with profound implications for our understanding of the Earth’s climate history. In her work, she’s developed innovative ways to use these proxies, which have been critical for testing numerical models of climate and tectonics.
As Chair of Geological Sciences and Professor of Geology, Martin’s influence on the scientific community extends beyond her research. She actively supports and mentors generations of scientists, including those from underrepresented backgrounds. Her efforts have contributed to the development of a more diverse and inclusive scientific community.
“I am honored, but I admit a bit overwhelmed, to be elected as an AGU Fellow,” said Martin. “I am particularly grateful to the colleagues who nominated me and would like to express my gratitude and heartfelt thanks to those who cared enough to push for me to receive this honor. It is the support of such thoughtful colleagues that distinguishes scientists who attain these honors from those who do not.”
AGU will formally recognize this year’s recipients at AGU23, which will convene more than 25,000 attendees from over 100 countries in San Francisco and online everywhere on 11-15 December 2023. The annual Honors Reception is a chance for AGU’s community to recognize the outstanding work of our colleagues and be inspired by their accomplishments and stories.
“Few people advance in science on their own, “ said Martin. “What is being honored here as my research is in reality, a product of collaborations with many people, including past and current students and postdocs, creative colleagues from the Department of Geological Sciences, amazing technical support from experts in my department, and collaborators from the broader scientific community. I hope they can all share in celebrating this honor, which they deserve as much as I do.”
AGU (www.agu.org) is a global community supporting more than half a million advocates and professionals in the Earth and space sciences. Through broad and inclusive partnerships, AGU aims to advance discovery and solution science that accelerate knowledge and create solutions that are ethical, unbiased and respectful of communities and their values. Our programs include serving as a scholarly publisher, convening virtual and in-person events and providing career support. We live our values in everything we do, such as our net zero energy renovated building in Washington, D.C. and our Ethics and Equity Center, which fosters a diverse and inclusive geoscience community to ensure responsible conduct.
