Trinity College Dublin is proud to announce that two of its distinguished academics, Professor Jennifer McElwain and Professor Jonathan Coleman, have been elected as Fellows of The Royal Society. This esteemed recognition acknowledges their outstanding and transformative contributions to their respective fields of research.
The Royal Society, a fellowship of the world's most eminent scientists, engineers, and technologists, has honoured Professors McElwain and Coleman for their pioneering work, which has significantly advanced scientific understanding and had a profound impact on global research.
Unearthing Earth's Ancient Atmosphere: Professor Jennifer McElwain
Professor Jennifer McElwain, a leading expert in palaeobotany, has revolutionised our understanding of Earth's atmospheric evolution. Her seminal research on fossil plants has provided critical insights into how the composition of the atmosphere, particularly the concentration of crucial greenhouse gases, has fluctuated over millions of years.
One of the most impactful aspects of Professor McElwain's work is her investigation into atmospheric change associated with biotic extinction events in Earth’s deep past. Her studies, particularly on the Triassic-Jurassic mass extinction approximately 200 million years ago, have fundamentally reframed our understanding of the profound contribution of climate change to widespread plant extinction and biodiversity loss. Her findings offer invaluable perspectives on the long-term impacts of atmospheric shifts, lessons that resonate deeply with contemporary environmental concerns.
Revolutionising 2D Materials: Professor Jonathan Coleman
Professor Jonathan Coleman has been recognized for his ground-breaking work in materials science, particularly for the development of Liquid Phase Exfoliation (LPE). This transformative technique has revolutionised the production of two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials, such as the highly celebrated graphene, from layered solids like graphite.
Prior to LPE, the scalable production of high-quality 2D materials was a significant challenge. Professor Coleman's innovative method has made these advanced materials more accessible for research and potential industrial applications, opening doors for advancements in fields ranging from electronics and energy storage to biomedicine. His work has significantly accelerated the pace of discovery and application in the exciting world of nanomaterials.
Dr. Linda Doyle, Provost & President at Trinity College Dublin, expressed immense pride in the professors' achievements. “It comes as no surprise to hear that Jennifer and Jonathan have been elected to the prestigious Fellowship of the Royal Society," Dr. Doyle stated. "Both are stellar researchers and deeply committed to their fields of scholarship. Their generosity in sharing their expertise through teaching and engagement is well known in Trinity and beyond."
Dr. Doyle further emphasised the broader significance of this recognition for the university. “As well as honouring their individual achievements, this news also highlights the talent of Trinity’s research community and affirms our standing as a leading research-intensive university. It is a hallmark of a Trinity education that our students benefit directly from learning in an environment shaped by research leaders like Jonathan and Jennifer.”
The election of Professor McElwain and Professor Coleman to The Royal Society is a testament to their individual brilliance and the vibrant research environment fostered at Trinity College Dublin. Their ongoing contributions continue to push the boundaries of scientific knowledge and inspire the next generation of researchers.